In a harrowing incident on Tuesday afternoon, a suicide bomber drove an explosive-laden car into a vehicle carrying Frontier Corps (FC) personnel in Hayatabad, injuring six of them, according to the police.
Attack on FC Vehicle in Hayatabad
The targeted attack occurred in Phase-II of the posh residential area, leaving the injured personnel in stable condition after being rushed to the hospital. The vehicle-borne improvised explosive device was the apparent cause of the blast, as stated by SSP Cantonment Circle Waqas Rafiq. The authorities are investigating the incident from various angles to ascertain the full details.
Security Measures During Muharram
With the approaching Muharram, the police were already on high alert, conducting search operations to prevent any untoward incidents. Additionally, personnel have been deployed at the city’s entry and exit points to bolster security.
Claim of Responsibility and Suspicions
A spokesperson for a previously unknown group, Tehreek Jihad Pakistan (TJP), claimed responsibility for the attack. However, a senior official attributed the attack to Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, suggesting that the group might be using a pseudonym to deflect mounting pressure on the Afghan Taliban.
Authorities React and Condemn the Attack
The caretaker Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Azam Khan, condemned the Hayatabad suicide attack and demanded a comprehensive report from senior police officials. Aimal Wali Khan, the ANP KP president, also expressed condemnation, raising concerns over the security arrangements with Muharram around the corner. He held those who engaged in talks with militants responsible for the surge in militancy.
Recent Tensions and Allegations
A day before the attack, corps commanders of the Pakistan Army pointed fingers at Kabul, blaming them for the rise in militancy. The commanders asserted that safe havens and freedom of action in Afghanistan provided militants with opportunities to launch attacks within Pakistan.
