The death toll from a suicide attack in northwest Pakistan has risen to 14 police officers, according to local authorities. The attack occurred late Saturday in Bannu, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
A suicide bomber, accompanied by armed assailants, detonated an explosives-laden vehicle near a police security post. Senior police official Sajjad Khan reported that the explosion led to a fierce gunfight, resulting in casualties among the officers.
As the situation unfolded, some officers were killed in the initial exchange of gunfire, while others died when the building collapsed due to the blast. Rescuers worked tirelessly for hours, utilizing heavy machinery to search for bodies beneath the rubble.
In addition to the fatalities, three police officers sustained injuries during the attack. Security forces have initiated operations to apprehend those responsible.
Militant Group Claims Responsibility
A newly formed militant group, Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan, has claimed responsibility for the assault. The group asserts its formation from splinter factions of the Pakistan Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). However, authorities suspect it to be a facade for the TTP.
The region has experienced escalating violence, largely attributed to the TTP, which is allied with the Afghan Taliban. Islamabad has frequently accused the Taliban government in Afghanistan of providing safe haven for the TTP, a claim that Kabul denies.
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain high, with sporadic clashes resulting in numerous fatalities since late February. Efforts for peace talks were made earlier this month, mediated by China, but violence has persisted, albeit at reduced levels.
The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Pakistan in the wake of increasing militant activities.
Senior Police Official Sajjad Khan