5 cops among 16 martyred in blast at Kohat Police Lines

PESHAWAR: Five police officers were among the 16 people killed in an explosion at the Kohat Police Lines, according to officials. Television footage showed residents gathering near a building with a damaged wall, searching through rubble and providing assistance to the wounded. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General (IG) Zulfiqar Hameed confirmed the death toll to Dawn, adding that over 50 people were injured in the blast.

An initial report from IG Hameed stated that the explosion took place at a mosque near Kohat Police Lines, suggesting an explosive-laden vehicle rammed into the building. Later, he claimed a suicide bomber detonated himself near the Special Branch building, and an exchange of fire was occurring with Fitna al Khawarij terrorists.

The IG declared that "the operation will continue until the complete elimination of Fitna-ul-Khawarij," emphasizing that the police's morale remained strong. Fitna al Khawarij refers to terrorists linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi requested a detailed report on the incident, expressing deep regret over the targeting of innocent citizens.

He directed authorities to provide immediate medical care for the injured and warned that such cowardly acts of terrorism could not diminish the nation's morale. KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi also condemned the blast, praying for the recovery of the injured and pledged the support of the entire nation to the security forces in eradicating terrorism.

This developing story is being updated as the situation unfolds, and readers are asked to be patient with any potential inaccuracies in initial media reports. The story relies on credible sources, including qualified authorities and staff reporters, to ensure accuracy and timeliness.