Islamabad: At least 14 people were killed and more than two dozen others injured after a suicide bomber targeted a peace rally in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday. The deadly attack took place near a police station in Kabal, located in the Swat Valley, where hundreds of people had gathered to demand peace and protest against rising militant violence in the region.
Suicide Bomber Strikes During Anti-Terror Rally
According to officials, the rally was organized by local residents calling for stronger action against militant groups operating in the area. The suicide attacker detonated explosives near the entrance of the police station after security personnel attempted to stop him, triggering a massive explosion that sent panic through the crowd.
The victims included civilians and police personnel, while many of the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as several victims remain in critical condition.
TTP Suspected Behind the Attack
While no group initially claimed responsibility, Pakistani security officials quickly suspected the involvement of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has intensified attacks across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in recent months. Reuters later reported that the TTP claimed responsibility for the bombing.
The Swat Valley, once considered a major militant stronghold before military operations pushed insurgents out, has witnessed a resurgence of extremist activity, prompting repeated public demonstrations demanding better security.
Pakistani Leaders Condemn the Bombing
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the suicide attack, describing it as a cowardly act aimed at destabilizing the country. They directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for those injured and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also denounced the attack and praised the courage of the security personnel.
Rising Terror Threat in Pakistan
The latest bombing highlights the worsening security situation in Pakistan’s northwestern regions bordering Afghanistan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks targeting police, military personnel and civilians, with authorities blaming militant groups operating from across the border. The Afghan Taliban government has repeatedly denied Pakistan’s allegations of providing sanctuary to the TTP.
Investigation Underway
Security forces have cordoned off the blast site and launched an extensive investigation to identify any accomplices involved in the attack. Forensic teams are examining evidence collected from the scene, while intelligence agencies have intensified operations against suspected militant hideouts in the region.
