The death toll from the devastating suicide bombing at the main gate of Kabal Police Station in Swat has risen to 17 after two more injured police personnel succumbed to their injuries, intensifying national grief and prompting renewed vows from Pakistan’s leadership to eliminate terrorism.
According to police officials, Sepoy Mukarram Khan and Sepoy Hussain Khan passed away while undergoing treatment at the hospital, taking the number of martyred police officers to seven. The overall death toll now stands at 17, including 10 civilians who also lost their lives in the deadly attack.
Authorities confirmed that 13 injured police officers remain under medical treatment, with several still reported to be in critical condition. Medical teams continue to provide emergency care while security officials closely monitor their recovery.
The suicide attack targeted the main entrance of Kabal Police Station, one of the key law enforcement facilities in Swat. The powerful explosion caused extensive damage to the police station and nearby structures, sending shockwaves through the surrounding area and resulting in heavy casualties among both police personnel and civilians.
Funeral prayers for the seven martyred police officers were held with full official honors at the Police Training School in Mingora. Senior police officers, government officials, and fellow personnel attended the ceremony, paying tribute to the sacrifices made by the officers in the line of duty.
Meanwhile, the 10 civilians who lost their lives in the attack were laid to rest in their respective hometowns, where family members and local residents gathered to mourn the tragic loss.
CTD Registers Terrorism Case
The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unidentified terrorists in connection with the suicide bombing.
According to CTD officials, the case includes charges of murder, attempted murder, terrorism, and other relevant provisions of Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws. Investigators revealed that the suicide bomber used approximately six to eight kilograms of explosives to carry out the attack.
Forensic experts have collected evidence from the blast site, while investigators are reviewing CCTV footage, conducting intelligence-based operations, and examining other leads to identify the terrorist network responsible for orchestrating the bombing.
Authorities believe the attack was carefully planned to inflict maximum casualties by targeting security personnel stationed at the entrance of the police facility.
Senior Police Officials Visit Injured Officers
Malakand Regional Police Officer (RPO) Syed Fida Hassan Shah, accompanied by Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Umar Khan, visited Saidu Sharif Hospital to meet the injured police officers.
The senior officers inquired about the condition of the wounded personnel and assured them that every possible medical and financial assistance would be provided during their recovery.
Speaking during the visit, RPO Shah praised the courage and dedication of the police force, saying the sacrifices of the martyred officers would always be remembered.
He emphasized that such cowardly attacks could never weaken the resolve of Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies and reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to maintaining peace and protecting citizens.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Condemns Attack
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the suicide bombing and expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives.
The prime minister extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and prayed for the elevation of their ranks. He also wished a speedy recovery for all those injured in the attack.
Shehbaz Sharif directed the relevant authorities to ensure that the injured receive the best possible medical treatment and instructed officials to provide full support to the families affected by the tragedy.
Reaffirming the government’s determination to defeat terrorism, the prime minister said Pakistan’s fight against militancy would continue until the complete eradication of terrorist elements from the country.
He stated that terrorists would never succeed in undermining Pakistan’s peace, stability, or national resolve.
President Zardari Orders Thorough Investigation
President Asif Ali Zardari also condemned the suicide attack, describing it as a heinous act targeting both innocent civilians and brave police personnel.
Expressing profound grief over the loss of lives, the president extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
He directed the concerned authorities to ensure the provision of the best healthcare facilities to the wounded and instructed investigators to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into the attack.
President Zardari emphasized that those responsible for the act of terrorism must be identified and brought to justice without delay.
He also praised the sacrifices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and other law enforcement agencies, describing their bravery and dedication as a source of pride for the nation.
Security Remains High Across KP
Following the attack, security has been tightened across Swat and other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Police checkpoints have been placed on high alert, while intelligence agencies continue search and surveillance operations to prevent further attacks.
The incident has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges faced by Pakistan, particularly in regions where security forces remain engaged in ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Officials have reiterated that despite repeated terrorist attacks, the country’s security forces remain committed to safeguarding public safety and eliminating extremist groups through coordinated intelligence and military operations.
The Swat suicide bombing stands as one of the deadliest attacks on law enforcement personnel in recent months, underscoring the continued threat posed by militant organizations. Authorities maintain that investigations are progressing rapidly and have vowed to bring everyone involved in planning and executing the attack to justice.
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