Two suicide bombers attacked the headquarters of the Federal Constabulary in Peshawar, Pakistan, on Monday, killing at least three security personnel and wounding several others in an incident that authorities have labeled a foiled terrorist plot. The assault highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, with no group immediately claiming responsibility, though the Pakistani Taliban is suspected.
The attack occurred at approximately 08:10 local time (03:10 GMT) on Monday morning at the Federal Constabulary’s provincial headquarters in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Witnesses reported hearing two loud explosions as the assailants charged at the main gate of the highly secured complex, which is located in a sensitive area near the border with Afghanistan. Police officials stated that the attackers were armed and attempted to breach multiple levels of security to enter the building, underscoring the brazen nature of the assault.
One suicide bomber detonated his explosives at the gate, while the second was shot and killed by security forces near the parking area before he could reach the interior. The timely response prevented a larger tragedy, as many personnel were gathered for morning parade drills in an open area inside the compound. Authorities emphasized that the attackers were neutralized at the perimeter, limiting the damage and potentially saving numerous lives.
The attack resulted in the deaths of three security officials and injuries to at least twelve people, including both security personnel and civilians. Rescue teams quickly cordoned off the area and provided medical assistance to the wounded, with the injured transported to local hospitals for treatment. Initial reports indicated varying casualty figures, but official statements confirmed three fatalities and multiple injuries, reflecting the chaos immediately following the incident.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the assault, but the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), is suspected due to their history of similar attacks in the region. The TTP is separate from but allied with the Afghan Taliban and has been active in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has long been a flashpoint for militant violence. This incident is part of a recent surge in such attacks across Pakistan, raising concerns about regional stability.
In response, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and called for the perpetrators to be identified and brought to justice swiftly. The government described the event as a thwarted terrorist plot, highlighting the effectiveness of security measures in preventing greater harm. The Federal Constabulary, a paramilitary force, handles situations beyond police capabilities, such as tribal incursions and criminal gang violence, making it a strategic target.
The attack underscores ongoing security challenges in Pakistan, straining relations with Afghanistan’s Taliban government. Pakistan has accused Afghan authorities of allowing TTP militants to operate freely from Afghan soil, a claim Kabul denies. This incident follows a suicide bombing outside a court in Islamabad less than two weeks ago that killed twelve people, exacerbating tensions amid fragile ceasefires and diplomatic efforts to address cross-border issues.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the attack and any possible links to broader militant networks. The persistence of such violence highlights the need for continued vigilance and enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan to address security threats and prevent future tragedies. As authorities work to identify the attackers, the region remains on high alert for potential further incidents.
