Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the Senate on Thursday that investigators have traced the perpetrators behind the recent suicide attacks in Islamabad and Wana, confirming that both attackers were Afghan nationals.
During the session, Naqvi explained that the Islamabad blast on Tuesday targeted a police patrol near a lower court and was carried out by an Afghan suicide bomber, resulting in 12 deaths and 27 injuries.
He further revealed that the suicide bomber involved in Monday’s attack at the Wana Cadet College in South Waziristan, who rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the college’s main gate, was also from Afghanistan. Security forces successfully neutralized other militants involved in the Wana incident.
Emphasizing Pakistan’s zero-tolerance policy toward cross-border terrorism, Naqvi vowed that all illegal Afghan residents would be expelled from the country “at all costs.” He stressed that Pakistan could no longer allow its territory to be used as a base for terrorism and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens.
Naqvi also addressed security concerns related to the ongoing Sri Lankan cricket tour. Following the Islamabad blast, the Sri Lankan team reportedly considered returning home due to safety fears. However, after high-level discussions and assurances, the team opted to continue its tour.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir personally contacted the Sri Lankan defence minister to guarantee full security arrangements, while the Sri Lankan president spoke directly to his national team to encourage them to proceed with the series.
The interior minister confirmed that the Sri Lankan cricket team has been provided “state guest-level security,” and all matches will be held in Rawalpindi under strict protection.
Naqvi’s statements highlighted Pakistan’s dual focus on neutralizing terrorism threats and ensuring the safety of international visitors. By coordinating security measures at both national and international levels, authorities aim to maintain stability while addressing the immediate challenges posed by recent attacks. The government continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent any further incidents.
