President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the deadly explosion at the Old Police Lines in Kohat, expressing deep grief over the loss of lives and injuries caused by the attack.
At least 16 people, including five police personnel, were killed and 54 others injured in the explosion near a mosque at Kohat Police Lines during Friday prayers.
Police said seven armed terrorists infiltrated the police lines following the blast. Six terrorists, including the suicide bomber, were killed during the ensuing operation, while security forces continued efforts to clear the area.
The attack began when a suicide bomber detonated explosives near the Special Branch building. Security personnel subsequently launched an operation to eliminate the remaining militants and secure the police lines.
The president and prime minister directed authorities to provide the injured with the best possible medical treatment and prayed for their speedy recovery.
The president said the complete elimination of militants and terrorist groups operating with foreign support was essential for national security. The prime minister also sought a detailed report on the incident and directed authorities to accelerate relief and rescue operations.
The interior ministry strongly condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the families of those killed. Authorities reiterated that acts of terrorism would not weaken the country’s resolve to combat militancy.
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government also condemned the attack and directed officials to ensure immediate medical treatment for the injured. Authorities were instructed to use all available resources to provide emergency care and transfer critically injured victims to other hospitals if necessary.
A detailed investigation into the incident was also ordered, with officials directed to examine all aspects of the attack and submit a comprehensive report.
Emergency measures were implemented at hospitals across Kohat to deal with the casualties and ensure the provision of medical facilities to the injured.
Officials condemned the targeting of civilians and places of worship, stressing that acts of terrorism would not undermine national determination to combat violence.
International condemnation also followed the attack, with several countries expressing solidarity with Pakistan, condemning terrorism and extending condolences to the families of those killed.
Foreign governments also called for efforts to counter terrorism and expressed support for Pakistan during the aftermath of the attack. Condolences were conveyed to the victims’ families, while prayers were offered for the speedy recovery of those injured.
The attack on the police lines has once again highlighted the security challenges facing Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and the continuing threat posed by militant violence in the province.
