A deadly suicide bombing outside Islamabad’s Judicial Complex on Tuesday claimed 12 lives and left 36 others injured, including several lawyers and civilians. The powerful explosion, which occurred near the District Court gate, caused extensive damage to nearby vehicles and property, sending shockwaves through the capital’s legal and administrative community.
Police confirmed that the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who detonated explosives at the court’s entrance. The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has registered a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act, with serious charges including murder, attempted murder, and creating public panic.
Among the victims was Advocate Zubair Aslam Ghumman, a young lawyer who had recently earned his Supreme Court Bar license. According to colleagues, he had visited the bar office earlier in the day to celebrate his accomplishment, distributing sweets moments before the tragic blast. He is survived by his wife, a nine-year-old daughter, and a ten-year-old son.
Authorities reported that 13 of the injured are currently being treated at PIMS Hospital, with one patient in critical condition. The bodies of all deceased have been handed over to their families following postmortem examinations and legal procedures.
The text of the FIR stated that the bomber specifically targeted the gate area, where many lawyers and litigants were present. Forensic and police teams remain on-site to collect evidence and identify those responsible for orchestrating the attack.
In response, the Islamabad Bar Council and District Bar Association have declared a three-day mourning period and a one-day strike to protest the deadly incident. The District Judicial Complex remains closed, with all hearings postponed.
Bar President Naeem Gujar urged lawyers and court staff to “stay home and stand united in grief.” Due to the shutdown, over 1,000 scheduled cases have been adjourned, with updated cause lists posted outside the courthouse for future hearings.
