Police protests that began in Lakki Marwat have now spread to Bajaur. Officers claim that with the proper authority, the police could eliminate terrorism within three months.
In Lakki Marwat, the protests have entered their third day, with officers setting up additional sit-ins at Manjiwala Chowk and Dara Pezu, effectively blocking all major roads into the city. The demonstrations started on September 9, with demands for full police authority, enhanced protection for officers, and the removal of intelligence agency personnel from police lines.
Protesters are also calling for the reinstatement of the police union and the closure of the isolated and unsafe Bragi police station. They have announced their intention to expand the protests, with officers from Khyber, Bannu, Tank, and Dera Ismail Khan set to join the sit-ins.
The unrest follows the recent targeted killings of five police officers in Lakki Marwat over the past week by unidentified assailants. A six-member committee has been established to negotiate with authorities.
Police officials have given a two-day ultimatum for their demands to be addressed, stating that the sit-ins will continue for at least two more days and may escalate further if their conditions are not met.
In Bajaur, police officers have initiated a sit-in at the Police Lines Ground, Headquarters Khar, in response to the targeted killings and the deaths of their colleagues. Additionally, they have announced a boycott of polio vaccination duties.