Shinwari
MINGORA
Swat Police have defended the professional record of DSP Headquarters Zerab Gul Khan, rejecting social media allegations questioning his conduct during the recent Shakardara incident and describing the criticism as a misleading portrayal of the circumstances on the ground.
Swat Police have defended the professional record of DSP Headquarters Zerab Gul Khan, rejecting social media allegations regarding his conduct during the recent Shakardara incident and terming them misleading.
According to a statement, DSP Zerab Gul Khan joined the police department as a constable in 1987 and has served in various capacities with dedication throughout his career.
The statement said he was declared a “Ghazi” in 1990 for displaying bravery during an anti-terrorism operation in Peshawar and was subsequently honoured by the Home Secretary in recognition of his courage.
It added that during the militancy in Swat, the officer played an active role in counterterrorism operations and efforts to restore peace. The statement claimed he remained in the custody of militants for several days but did not surrender.
Referring to the Shakardara incident, the police said DSP Khan proceeded to the scene with a police contingent despite the area not falling within his jurisdiction and without waiting for orders from senior officers. It said the contingent came under gunfire and rocket attacks, while local residents advised the officer against moving further because the road ahead had become inaccessible.
According to the statement, a Rescue 1122 vehicle had also come under fire on the same route, while the highway had been blocked, leaving no safe alternative route for advancing.
The police maintained that operational decisions are taken according to established security protocols and that informing senior officers about the evolving situation is a standard part of operational procedure rather than a sign of reluctance.
The statement further noted that travelling in a bulletproof vehicle does not guarantee protection against heavy weapons and stressed that operational planning requires balancing courage with tactical judgment.
Expressing concern over criticism on social media, the police said attempts to ridicule a senior officer with decades of service were unfair and based on misinformation.
The statement reiterated that the KP Police had rendered significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and would continue to stand alongside other security forces in efforts to maintain peace and security.
