Major Security Breach in Peshawar
Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar experienced a significant security breach on Monday morning when suicide bombers launched an assault on the headquarters of the Federal Constabulary (FC). The paramilitary force is stationed in a densely populated area near the military cantonment, making the attack particularly concerning for local residents.
The deadly assault resulted in at least three FC personnel losing their lives while several others sustained injuries. The incident triggered a large-scale security operation to clear the compound and secure the surrounding neighborhood.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to police and rescue officials, the attackers struck just after 8am, targeting the main entrance before attempting to push further inside the facility. Senior officers confirmed that the swift security response prevented what could have been a mass-casualty event, especially since dozens of FC personnel were gathered on the parade ground at the time of the attack.
Police Chief Saeed Ahmad provided crucial details about the sequence of events. One attacker detonated his explosives at the main gate, while the second bomber was shot dead near the parking area. He emphasized that the terrorists were on foot and attempting to reach the parade ground but were stopped by security forces.
Other security officials reported that three militants in total attempted to storm the complex. CCPO Dr Mian Saeed stated that while one attacker detonated himself at the main gate, two others managed to enter the premises before being killed in the ensuing gun battle.
Immediate Aftermath and Political Response
Following the attack, the FC immediately cordoned off the area, diverted traffic, and launched a comprehensive search operation. Hospital officials confirmed that at least five people, including both FC personnel and civilians, were injured in the blast.
Emergency measures were declared at Lady Reading Hospital and Khyber Teaching Hospital, where medical staff reported all wounded individuals were in stable condition.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the assault, acknowledging that timely action taken by security forces saved us from major harm. President Asif Ali Zardari issued a warning, stating that externally backed Fitna-al-Khawarij cannot weaken Pakistan's unity, resilience or resolve.
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, but the incident occurs amid a sharp increase in militant attacks since the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) ended a ceasefire in 2022. Pakistani authorities have repeatedly accused the TTP of operating from Afghan soil, though Kabul continues to deny these allegations.
Monday's bombing represents the second major attack on a security installation in Peshawar in recent years, following the devastating 2023 Police Lines mosque blast that killed 84 people. Security forces have since intensified operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan regions, where attacks on military and police units have seen a significant surge.
