PESHAWAR, Pakistan — A suicide bombing outside a security force headquarters in Peshawar claimed the lives of at least three personnel on Monday morning. The attack, which occurred at approximately 8 a.m. on a busy thoroughfare, involved three assailants trying to breach the Federal Constabulary (FC) compound.
According to security officials, one bomber detonated his explosives at the main entrance, while the other two managed to enter the premises before being shot dead by responding guards. City Police Chief Mian Saeed reported the sequence of events, noting the quick response that neutralized the remaining attackers.
CCTV footage captured dramatic moments as the explosion echoed through the area. The 45-second clip shows a guard near the entrance when the blast detonated, sending debris and shock waves across the scene as injured individuals sought safety. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with numerous vehicles fleeing from the vicinity.
Reports indicate that residents living nearby felt the explosion’s impact and described it as a loud noise reverberating through their homes. Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, confirmed the occurrence of two distinct blasts—one at the gate and another near a motorcycle stand within the FC compound. The incident caused considerable panic in surrounding neighborhoods.
The attack unfolded on a day when operations were underway at the headquarters, adding urgency to the response from authorities. Hospital sources confirmed that, in addition to the fatalities, at least five others—including three civilians—sustained injuries during the incident.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but it continues a troubling trend of violence in the region. Security forces have been increasingly on high alert, especially given the ongoing challenges posed by militant groups in the area. While initial details suggest a coordinated effort by the attackers, the immediate investigation aims to determine further security measures necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the dust settles, local and national leaders are urged to address the growing concerns over safety and security in Peshawar and beyond. The government is expected to review current protocols and bolster safeguards to protect both security personnel and civilians in light of this tragic event.