LOWER DIR: The police have arrested six suspects, including a foreign national and a woman, in connection with a major robbery that took place in the Lal Qila area here on April 15.

District police officer Abdul Salam Khalid told reporters at Balambat Police Lines that the robbers, dressed in security forces’ uniforms, broke into the house of a local resident, Saaz Mohammad, and looted gold, cash, and other valuables.

“A special team headed by SP investigations Rashid Ahmad used modern forensic tools to track down six members of the eight-member gang,” Mr Khalid said, adding 80 per cent of the stolen items had been recovered.

He commended the public cooperation in maintaining law and order, reiterating that there were no “no-go areas” in the district.

DPO Khalid also said the police had arrested two suspects for an armed attack on constable Sajjad Khan in Munda on March 31.

Initially believed to be an act of terrorism, a joint investigation later concluded that the motive was personal.

Also on Monday, deputy commissioner Mohammad Arif Khan inaugurated a spring tree plantation campaign by planting a sapling on the premises of the Timergara TMA office.

Speaking on the occasion, he said the forest and other departments had been directed to actively participate in the plantation campaign, which targets planting at least 100,000 saplings across Lower Dir.

“Trees not only enhance the beauty of our region but also help reduce pollution and promote a healthier environment,” he remarked.

He stressed that no one would be allowed to illegally cut trees, and cited a recent case where officials foiled an attempt to smuggle 120 timber sleepers in an oil tanker.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2025