The death toll from the deadly blast and subsequent attack at Kohat Police Lines has risen to 22, according to the latest reports. More than 100 people were injured in the incident, with some victims still receiving treatment for serious injuries.
The attack took place on Friday during prayers at a mosque inside the old Police Lines area of Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. An explosives-laden vehicle reportedly rammed into the Police Lines before detonating. The explosion was followed by an attack on the compound, prompting security personnel to launch an immediate operation.
According to hospital and police officials, 15 police personnel were among those killed, while civilians also lost their lives. More than 100 injured people were taken to hospitals in Kohat for emergency treatment. Several critically injured victims were later shifted to medical facilities in Peshawar.
Police said armed attackers entered the Police Lines following the initial explosion. Security forces and police engaged the attackers in an exchange of fire during a subsequent clearance operation. Reports said several attackers were killed during the operation.
Authorities sealed routes leading to the Police Lines after the incident and launched a search operation across the premises. The security operation was aimed at clearing the area and securing the site following the attack.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police chief said preliminary information pointed to the involvement of militants in the attack. Authorities have also said that investigators are working to trace the wider network behind the assault, including possible facilitators.
Funeral prayers for the police personnel killed in the attack were offered after the incident. A police contingent also presented a guard of honour to the fallen personnel.
The attack drew condemnation from Pakistan’s political leadership, with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi among those expressing condolences and condemning the violence.
Medical authorities in Peshawar also received injured victims transferred from Kohat. Several patients were admitted to different wards, while some were reportedly discharged after receiving treatment. One or more critically injured victims remained under specialised medical care.
The latest reports put the death toll at 22, although casualty figures can change as authorities continue to verify information and treat those injured. Investigations into the attack and the identities and network of those responsible are continuing.
Also read: Two Policemen martyred in Kohat
