PESHAWAR—Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister’s Advisor on Information Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif has strongly criticized the prime minister for failing to acknowledge the civilian casualties in the recent Katlang operation, which locals have described as a drone strike, calling it “deeply regrettable.”
In a video statement, Saif reaffirmed that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has already taken a clear stance on the tragic loss of civilian lives during the anti-terror operation in Katlang. He stressed that while combating terrorism remains a priority, the deaths of innocent citizens cannot be overlooked. “The chief minister has made it clear that the loss of civilian lives is both condemnable and unfortunate,” Saif said. “He has also emphasized that previous operations in this region have successfully eliminated high-profile terrorists.”
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Saif assured that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident, examining all aspects to uncover the truth. “The chief minister has already ordered a full inquiry, and once the facts are established, the provincial government will present its position with full force,” he added. He expressed deep sympathy for the families of the victims, promising unwavering support. “The bereaved families will not be left alone. The government will ensure they receive full financial assistance,” he pledged. Saif also condemned terrorists for using civilians as human shields and embedding themselves within local populations. “Such cowardly tactics will not deter the province’s resolve to eliminate terrorism,” he stated.
Saif revealed that the federal government had not informed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities about the operation in advance. “There was a complete lack of communication from the center. The fact that the local district police officer and regional police chief were unaware of the raid proves this,” he asserted. The advisor warned that poor coordination between the federal and provincial governments could embolden terrorists and alienate the public.
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“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been on the frontline in the war on terror. A lack of communication in such critical operations is not just irresponsible—it endangers lives and fuels public resentment,” he said. Locals in Katlang have described the operation as a drone strike, further fueling public outrage. Saif emphasized the need for transparency, demanding that the federal government clarify the nature of the attack and its decision-making process.
He reiterated that the chief minister has ordered a rigorous operational review of the incident to identify flaws and prevent future civilian casualties. “Moving forward, the provincial government will not allow such operations without prior coordination,” he concluded.
