At least 16 people, including five police personnel, were killed in a suicide attack at the Old Police Lines in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Friday, in one of the deadliest attacks on a police facility in the region in recent months. (ARN News Centre)
The attack took place as police personnel, their family members and other civilians were gathered for Friday prayers at a mosque inside the compound. Dozens of people were also injured, while emergency teams rushed casualties to nearby hospitals. (The Times of Israel)
Explosives-Laden Vehicle Hit Police Facility
According to provincial police chief Zulfikar Hameed, an explosives-laden vehicle struck the outer wall of the police facility before armed attackers accompanying the vehicle opened fire.
Police described the incident as a suicide attack. Security personnel engaged the attackers following the explosion, while a major security operation was launched inside and around the compound. (ARN News Centre)
Initial reports from the area showed extensive damage around the mosque and nearby structures, with rescue workers and local residents searching through debris and helping move the wounded.
Five Police Officers Among the Dead
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police said the fatalities included five police personnel and 11 civilians, taking the confirmed death toll to at least 16.
The number of casualties could change as authorities continue rescue operations and hospitals treat those injured in the attack. Several reports said dozens of wounded people had been taken for medical treatment. (Arab News)
Emergency services deployed ambulances and rescue personnel to the site shortly after the explosion.
Attack Struck During Friday Prayers
The timing of the attack has drawn particular attention as the explosion occurred close to a mosque while worshippers were offering Friday prayers.
The police compound houses law-enforcement facilities, making it a sensitive security location in Kohat.
Security forces cordoned off the area following the blast as investigators and rescue teams continued their work.
No Group Immediately Claims Responsibility
No organization had immediately claimed responsibility for the Kohat Police Lines attack at the time of the latest reports. (ARN News Centre)
Authorities have not publicly identified the attackers or announced a final assessment of how many assailants were involved.
The incident remains a developing security situation, and officials are expected to release further details after the completion of the operation and preliminary investigation.
Security Concerns Rise in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The Kohat attack comes amid continuing security challenges across parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where police and security forces have faced repeated militant attacks.
Just a day earlier, six soldiers were reported killed in a roadside bomb attack in neighbouring Hangu district, highlighting the continuing security pressure in the region. (AP News)
The latest attack is expected to renew focus on the security of police installations and other sensitive locations, particularly during large religious gatherings.