A suicide bombing at a military installation in northwestern Pakistan on Tuesday killed at least 18 people, including 13 civilians and five soldiers.
The attack, carried out by militants driving vehicles filled with explosives, also left 30 others injured, according to police, rescue services, and the military. The blast caused significant damage, collapsing the roof of a nearby mosque and several buildings in a market crowded with shoppers during Ramadan.
How Swift Military Response Stopped Further Damage
Pakistan’s military reported that the attackers attempted to breach the cantonment’s security but were “swiftly and decisively foiled” by the security forces. Four suicide bombers were among the 16 militants killed during the operation.
In a statement they released, the military emphasized, “The evil ambitions of the enemies of Pakistan will never be allowed to succeed.”
Civilian Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The attack claimed the lives of six children and seven other civilians, with the number of child fatalities revised down from seven on Wednesday. Rescue services are still searching for casualties under the debris of collapsed buildings.
Video footage from the scene showed locals and rescue workers sifting through rubble and clearing metal scaffolding. Muhammad Nauman, a hospital spokesperson, confirmed that all 30 injured were civilians, many of whom were caught under falling structures.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. However, the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has been increasingly active in the region, targeting police and military installations near the Afghan border. The TTP’s growing attacks have raised concerns about security in the area.
Government Condemns Attack, Vows to Combat Terrorism
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, stating, “The evil ambitions of the enemies of Pakistan will never be allowed to succeed.” The government has vowed to intensify efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens.
The attack shows the ongoing security challenges in northwestern Pakistan, particularly in regions bordering Afghanistan. The area has seen a surge in militant activity, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.
