Major Terror Strike Rocks Peshawar's Security Establishment
In a brazen coordinated assault on Monday, suicide bombers and gunmen targeted the heavily fortified headquarters of the Federal Constabulary paramilitary force in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Peshawar, leaving six people dead and several others injured.
The rebel group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA) has officially claimed responsibility for the devastating attack that unfolded in the densely populated area on Sunehri Masjid Road within Peshawar Cantonment.
Sequence of the Attack
The operation began with a suicide bomber detonating explosives at the main entrance of the highly secured FC headquarters compound. Following the initial blast, security sources confirmed that at least two additional attackers breached the premises and engaged in fierce gun battles with security forces.
Peshawar capital city police officer Mian Saeed Ahmad revealed to local media that the three personnel killed were specifically stationed at the main gate when the attack commenced. He emphasized that the swift response from security forces led to the timely elimination of the remaining two attackers, potentially preventing a much higher casualty count.
Over two dozen people were admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment, with several personnel and civilians reported among the injured. The attack occurred at a time when a large number of personnel were reportedly gathered inside the compound for parade drills, making the quick neutralization of attackers crucial.
Terror Group's Claim and Ideology
A representative of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar used the Telegram messaging platform to announce their involvement, stating: "Three suicide mujahideen are participating in the attack. We want the complete and 100% implementation of Sharia. If the enemy agrees to 99% but refuses even 1%, then our jihad against them will continue."
The JuA, which comprises soldiers from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has a complex history. The group initially split from TTP in 2014 due to ideological differences but rejoined the main organization several years ago. Recent intelligence assessments attribute the resurgence in regional militancy primarily to TTP and its associated factions, including JuA.
This isn't the first major attack claimed by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. The group was also responsible for the suicide bombing at a judicial complex in Islamabad that occurred just one day after the blast in Delhi, demonstrating their continued operational capability and regional reach.
Conflicting Casualty Figures
While Pakistani authorities confirmed six fatalities, including three soldiers, the militant group claimed around two dozen casualties in their statement. The JuA also acknowledged the death of three of its fighters during the operation.
The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the persistent threat posed by militant groups despite counter-terrorism efforts. The Federal Constabulary headquarters represents a significant security installation, making this assault particularly concerning for regional stability.
