Kohat (Rajeev Sharma): Explosives-laden vehicle triggers blast during Friday prayers before gunmen attack police compound; six militants killed
Peshawar, September 19, 2026: At least 21 people, including 15 police personnel, were killed and more than 100 injured after a blast struck a mosque inside the old Police Lines compound in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during Friday prayers.
According to Pakistani officials, the attack began when an explosives-laden vehicle rammed into the entrance of the police facility, triggering a powerful explosion. Armed militants subsequently entered the compound, leading to an exchange of fire with police and counter-terrorism personnel.
Police said six attackers were killed, including a suicide bomber and other militants involved in the assault. A clearance operation was launched after the initial attack as security forces searched the compound for any remaining assailants.
Police Personnel Among Majority of Dead
Officials said the casualties included 15 policemen and six civilians. More than 100 people were wounded, with both police personnel and civilians among those taken to hospitals for treatment.
The explosion severely damaged the mosque and parts of the surrounding police facility. Rescue teams were deployed to clear debris and evacuate the injured, while authorities temporarily closed the Kohat-Hangu road and increased security around the area.
Militant Group Claims Responsibility
Responsibility for the attack was claimed by Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan, a relatively little-known militant alliance. The group is reported to include factions associated with the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, Harakat Inqilab-e-Islami Pakistan and Lashkar-e-Islam.
The attack came amid heightened militant violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where security forces have continued operations against armed groups.
Zardari, Shehbaz Condemn Attack
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the bombing and expressed condolences to the families of those killed.
Sharif sought a report from the authorities and directed officials to accelerate relief and rescue efforts. Zardari called for the complete elimination of militant threats and stressed the importance of security measures following the attack.
The incident has once again placed the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under scrutiny, with police and other security agencies continuing efforts to secure the affected compound and investigate the attack.
