In a tragic incident that sent shockwaves through the community, at least five people lost their lives, and 12 others sustained injuries in twin suicide blasts targeting a mosque within the premises of the Doaba police station in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu. The attack unfolded during Friday prayers, a time of peace and reflection, turning it into a scene of chaos and devastation. The prompt response of the police prevented further casualties, highlighting the bravery and dedication of the officers on duty. As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, questions arise about the motives behind such acts of terror and the security measures in place to protect communities.
The twin blasts occurred as worshippers gathered for Friday prayers at the mosque within the Doaba police station in Hangu. The attackers, identified as suicide bombers traveling in a vehicle, attempted to breach the police station’s security. However, they were met with resistance by the vigilant police officers stationed at the mosque’s entrance. One of the attackers was killed in a shootout with the police outside the mosque, while the other managed to enter the worship place, causing significant damage and casualties.
Hangu District Police Officer Nisar Ahmed confirmed the casualties and injuries, revealing that the first blast occurred at the police station’s entrance, drawing a crowd of onlookers. Moments later, a second blast rocked the mosque during the Friday sermon, leading to the collapse of the mosque’s roof and trapping dozens under the rubble.
The aftermath of the blasts prompted a swift response from rescue teams and locals in the area, who initiated a rescue operation to retrieve the injured and recover the bodies of the deceased. Among the injured, six individuals were reported to be in critical condition, and receiving immediate medical attention.
The identity of the perpetrators and their affiliations remain unclear as no group has claimed responsibility for the attack at this time. Eyewitnesses on the scene recounted the horrifying moments, with one individual noting that approximately 60 to 70 people were inside the mosque at the time of the explosions. The resistance shown by the police allowed many to escape the premises before the second blast occurred.
Peshawar Corps Commander Lieutenant General Hassan Azhar Hayat visited the blast site to express the nation’s pride in its martyrs and commend the officers for their bravery in averting further destruction. He denounced the attackers, emphasizing that their actions could not be considered in line with any faith or humanity.
KP caretaker Chief Minister Azam Khan took immediate action, seeking a report on the incident from the police and directing authorities to expedite the ongoing rescue operation. He also instructed the concerned officials to ensure that the wounded received the best available medical treatment, imposing an emergency in hospitals across Hangu.
Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his grief at the loss of lives in the Hangu blasts, condemning such attacks on a sacred day as a testament to the malevolent intentions of terrorists. He stood in solidarity with the law enforcement agencies dedicated to safeguarding the nation.
National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf echoed the condemnation, emphasizing that targeting innocent citizens was an abhorrent and cowardly act. He highlighted the tactics employed by anti-state elements to disrupt peace within the country.
The security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and other parts of Pakistan has seen an increase in terrorist activities in recent months, particularly after the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terminated its ceasefire with the government in November of the previous year. Security forces have been actively engaged in operations to combat militants and maintain stability in the region.
The twin blasts in Hangu serve as a grim reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism and the importance of bolstering security measures to protect communities. As Pakistan faces this latest challenge, there is a collective determination to stand strong against those who seek to disrupt peace and harmony within the nation.
