SWAT: At least 14 people were killed and several others injured in a suicide bombing outside the main gate of Kabal Police Station in Swat district, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, on Sunday, according to Rescue 1122 officials.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Ahmad Faizi confirmed that the death toll had risen to 14, with the bodies of nine victims shifted to Saidu Sharif Central Hospital, while five additional deaths were confirmed at Kabal Hospital.
Earlier, Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Umar Gandapur had reported seven fatalities and 18 people sustaining serious injuries.
Suicide Bomber Stopped Before Entering Police Station
According to Malakand Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Fida Hussain, the attacker attempted to enter Kabal Police Station but was intercepted by a police officer before gaining access.
“The suicide bomber was stopped at the entrance and detonated the explosives at the police station’s main gate,” the DIG said.
He noted that the police lines and several other sensitive government installations are located near the police station, potentially preventing a larger tragedy.
Preliminary reports indicated that four police officers were seriously injured in the explosion, while civilians were also among the casualties.
Rescue Operation Launched
Rescue 1122 immediately launched a large-scale emergency response following the blast.
According to officials, 13 ambulances and more than 45 rescue personnel participated in the rescue operation.
Emergency teams provided first aid to more than 15 injured individuals before shifting them to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
Rescue officials said operations continued at the scene as authorities worked to clear the area and assess the full extent of the damage.
Leaders Condemn Attack
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi strongly condemned the suicide bombing and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of police personnel and civilians.
He said those targeting law enforcement officers “deserve no leniency” and praised the sacrifices made by police officers and members of the Pakistan Army in maintaining peace and security.
“The nation is proud of the sacrifices of its security forces. Terrorists cannot weaken the resolve of the people through such cowardly attacks,” the governor said.
Provincial Health Minister Khaliq-ur-Rehman also condemned the attack, extending condolences to the families of those killed and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Investigation Underway
Security agencies have launched an investigation into the suicide bombing, while additional police and security personnel have been deployed in the area.
Authorities are collecting evidence from the blast site to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing.
