KOHAT: Six of the seven terrorists involved in the attack on the old Police Lines in Kohat have been eliminated, while a clearance operation has entered its final stage, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police said on Friday.
According to the Regional Police Office, the terrorists killed in the operation included suicide bombers and sniper shooters. The personnel of the Counter Terrorim Deparment (CTD) and police promptly reacted to the attack and eliminated the attackers. They were continuing the clearance operation to eliminate any remaining attackers and secure the area.
The attack took place during Friday prayers at a mosque near the old Police Lines, killing at least 16 people and injuring more than 40 others. Police said the dead included five police personnel and 11 civilians.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zulfiqar Hamid said an explosives-laden vehicle was rammed into the gate of the old Police Lines before the blast. Gunfire also broke out after the explosion, he said.
The IGP said that suicide bomber and sniper was eliminated at the start of the counterterrorim operation.
The blast struck as worshippers were offering Friday prayers at the mosque. It left a crater outside the mosque, severely damaged its exterior and caused a wall to collapse, according to police. Nearby buildings also sustained damage.
Police and Counter Terrorism Department personnel subsequently launched an operation against the attackers. Three suspected militants were initially reported killed during the operation, while the latest police update put the number of terrorists eliminated at six.
Meanwhile, Rescue 1122 teams continued search-and-rescue operations at the site. More than 60 rescue personnel were deployed, supported by 20 ambulances, rescue vehicles and recovery equipment. Additional ambulances and personnel were also brought in from neighbouring districts, including Karak and Hangu.
Rescue officials initially reported 15 deaths and more than 40 injuries, with some of the wounded in critical condition. A later Central Police Office update raised the confirmed death toll to 16 and said more than 50 people had been injured.
Security personnel have cordoned off the area as the clearance operation continues. Authorities are expected to provide further details about the attackers and the circumstances surrounding the assault as the operation and investigation progress.
President Zardari Condemns Kohat Blast
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over the loss of life in the blast near the Police Lines in Kohat and directed authorities to ensure immediate and quality medical treatment for the injured.
Zardari said the complete elimination of Fitna al-Khawarij and other terrorist groups was essential for national security.
Kohat Blast: CM Sohail Afridi Seeks Report from Police
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi took notice of the Kohat blast and sought a report from police officials.
Afridi described the incident as a “deeply regrettable and unacceptable” act of terrorism and directed authorities to use all available resources to provide immediate medical assistance to the injured.
He also instructed officials to ensure proper treatment for the wounded at hospitals and make all necessary medical facilities available.
The blast near the old Police Lines in Kohat occurred during Friday prayers and killed at least 16 people, according to police. More than 40 people were also injured.
