Security forces on Monday successfully foiled a major terrorist attack on Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reportedly orchestrated by militants belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), according to security sources.
Suicide Blast at College Gate
Officials confirmed that a suicide bomber linked to Fitna al Khawarij — the term officially adopted by the state for TTP terrorists — detonated explosives at the main entrance of the college. The explosion injured six civilians, including bystanders near the gate.
“Swift and coordinated action by security personnel prevented the attackers from entering the premises,” security sources said, adding that a clearance operation was launched immediately. Initial reports indicate that four to five terrorists were killed in the ensuing exchange of fire.
Authorities believe the attackers were attempting to replicate an atrocity similar to the 2014 Army Public School (APS) tragedy, when TTP militants killed 147 people, including 132 schoolchildren, in Peshawar. However, the timely intervention of security forces averted what could have been another national tragedy.
Rising Wave of Terror in KP and Balochistan
The incident highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against rising terrorism, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where militant activities have surged since the TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. Since then, security forces, police, and law enforcement agencies have been frequent targets of attacks.
In April this year, a blast at a peace committee office in South Waziristan killed at least seven people, underscoring the persistent threat in the region.
Security agencies continue to carry out intelligence-based operations across the tribal districts under Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, aiming to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure long-term stability in Pakistan’s northwestern belt.
