16 Killed, Including Five Police Personnel, in Kohat Police Lines Blast
Security and rescue teams respond after an explosion near the Old Police Lines in Kohat.
At least 16 people, including five police personnel, were killed in an explosion near the Old Police Lines in Kohat on Friday, while security personnel continued an operation against armed attackers inside the compound.
Police said an explosives-laden vehicle rammed the area near the Old Police Lines. A suicide attacker later detonated explosives near the Special Branch building, according to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed.
One militant was also killed during an exchange of fire with security personnel, police said.
Police Continue Operation After Blast
IG Hameed said the operation would continue until authorities eliminate the attackers. He also said Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Police remained determined to pursue those responsible.
Earlier, Hameed told local media that police were exchanging fire with armed attackers following the explosion.
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Authorities placed the area on high alert and deployed additional security personnel around the Police Lines.
Police initially investigated reports that an explosives-laden vehicle had rammed the Old Police Lines. Officials later provided further details about the suicide attack near the Special Branch building.
Rescue Teams Shift Injured to Hospitals
Rescue 1122 teams immediately launched relief operations after the explosion.
Rescue officials said more than 40 personnel, 14 ambulances and recovery vehicles were working at the scene. Several injured people remained in critical condition, while rescue teams transported casualties to nearby hospitals.
The explosion also damaged the outer portion of a mosque and caused a wall to collapse, according to rescue officials. Hospitals in Kohat activated emergency arrangements to receive the injured.
District Emergency Officer Noor-ul-Amin supervised the rescue operation as teams continued their work at the site.
KP Government Condemns Attack
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the attack and directed authorities to provide immediate medical treatment to the injured.
Afridi also sought a detailed report from police officials and ordered authorities to use all available resources for the victims.
He directed officials to arrange transfers for critically injured patients if hospitals required additional capacity.
The chief minister said attacks against civilians could not weaken the country’s resolve against terrorism.
Governor Kundi Expresses Solidarity
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi also condemned the explosion and called for immediate medical care for those injured.
Kundi said the sacrifices of security personnel and civilians in the fight against terrorism would not go in vain.
The governor expressed solidarity with security forces and the families affected by the attack.
Authorities have continued the security operation and rescue efforts as investigators determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack. The casualty figures and operational details could change as officials release further information.
