The terrorist attack on Khazeena Banda checkpoint in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Hangu district, in which ten police personnel including a DSP were martyred, has exposed the horrific cost of the security crisis that affects every Pakistani in the wake of the Hangu attack. When the law enforcement agencies themselves are armed with sophisticated weapons in their offices and outposts, it affects all citizens from Peshawar to Karachi. This latest incident reminds ordinary Pakistanis of how dangerous the security forces of the state are performing their duties. In order to understand the true meaning of the commitment of 'Don't be afraid', it is necessary to go beyond the political slogans and examine the ground realities.

Actual cost of Frontline Defense in Hangu

The martyred DSP had attended the grave of a martyred officer just 24 hours before the incident and expressed his solidarity with the bereaved. His latest speech and action reflects the gritty and strong resolve of the police force in the violence-hit districts. When security officials say they will not back down, they are actually taking the brunt of it themselves so that public markets, schools and settlements are safe. When a citizen wakes up and hears the news of ten martyrdoms and twenty-eight injured, the first question that comes to his mind is whether the federal and provincial institutions have the ability to protect the highways and cities.

How security concerns affect daily life

Security incidents of this scale have a direct impact on the economy and travel of the common man. Transport businesses, small traders and day laborers in areas close to border districts face additional check posts, searches and travel delays. When incidents like the Hangu attack occur, business activities slow down, markets close early and traffic advisories are issued by the Motorway Police. For Pakistani households already burdened by inflation and utility bills, this kind of security crisis adds to the stress.

What Readers Should Do

Civilians cannot participate in combat with guns, but social awareness and precautions can be the first line of defense:

  • Trust authentic and verified news instead of paying attention to unconfirmed social media rumours.
  • Immediately report any suspicious person, abandoned object or activity near schools, markets and public places to the local police helpline (15).
  • All household members should have emergency contact numbers, including hospital and district administration numbers.
  • When traveling in sensitive districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, be sure to check the latest traffic and security situation before departure.

What to look forward to

In the coming weeks, attention will focus on the response of the Ministry of Interior, provincial police authorities and intelligence agencies. Citizens should see whether the federal government increases funding for bulletproof vehicles, advanced night vision equipment and weapons for frontline police posts. Apart from this, the fiscal decisions of the State Bank and Economic Ministries will also have to be monitored to see how much resources are being allocated for internal security and border management.

When Pakistan is going through this difficult phase, the resilience of its people is the biggest shield against terrorism. However, along with this determination, practical support for the families of the martyrs and provision of modern resources to the police force should be the primary responsibility of the state.