Pakistan’s Islamabad on red alert after militants launch attack on key check post

Authorities in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad were on high alert on Saturday (March 8) following a major attack on a check post on the Punjab–Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) border. The attack took place in early hours of the day by 15-20 militants, according to media reports.

Authorities had shut down all entry and exit points to the so-called ‘Red Zone’ area of the capital for an indefinite period.

Notably, the Red Zone hosts important government buildings of the federal government, including the President’s House, Prime Minister’s House, National Assembly of Pakistan, Senate of Pakistan, Foreign office, the diplomatic enclave, Supreme Court of Pakistan and other important offices.

Attack on check post

News agency IANS cited police sources as saying that the militants launched attacks on the check post using rocket launchers and other heavy weapons.

“The attackers approached the post in small groups from multiple directions but were detected through thermal imaging cameras. The security personnel responded immediately with machine guns and mortar fire, forcing the assailants to retreat,” said an officer of Punjab Police.

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The check post has emerged as a major target for militants active in Pakistan. The Saturday attack was the second within this week. Militants attempted to occupy this check post last year as well but were thwarted by Pakistani security agencies.

“Punjab Police have so far successfully repelled 19 similar assaults on border checkpoints,” claimed Usman Anwar, Director General of Punjab Police.

“Our vigilant officers have ensured that these elements fail in their nefarious designs,” he added.

Militancy on rise in Pakistan

Pakistan has experienced a sharp rise in militant violence over the past months.

In February, a 175 per cent increase was recorded in civilian casualties compared to January, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).

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The southwestern province of Balochistan was the most affected.

The report stated that Pakistan recorded 79 militant attacks in February, leading to 55 civilian deaths and 47 security personnel fatalities. Additionally, 81 security personnel and 45 civilians were injured.

In response, security forces have ramped up counter-militancy efforts, eliminating 156 militants, injuring 20, and arresting 66 suspects.

“February 2025 marked the first month since August 2024 in which civilian fatalities surpassed those of security forces,” the report said. “Civilian deaths rose by 175 per cent compared to January 2025, when 20 civilians were killed, while security forces’ casualties declined by 18 per cent, down from 57 in January.”

(With inputs from agencies)