Security forces have completed a clearance operation at Kohat Police Lines after eliminating all eight attackers involved in the assault.
Police said the operation concluded on Saturday after the terrorists were killed inside the compound. The death toll from the attack and subsequent operation has risen to 23.
The victims include 17 police personnel and six civilians. Several senior police officers, including officials holding SP, DSP and inspector ranks, are also among those killed. More than 100 people were injured in the attack.
All Eight Attackers Killed
According to police, all eight terrorists involved in the attack were killed during the security operation.
The attackers included a suicide bomber who took part in the initial assault. Some terrorists also managed to enter the Special Branch building inside the Police Lines.
Security forces subsequently cleared the building and eliminated the attackers who had entered the facility. The operation continued into Saturday before authorities declared the Police Lines area clear.
The assault began on Friday when a suicide attack targeted the mosque inside the Police Lines. Armed attackers then moved into the compound, prompting security forces to launch a clearance operation.
CTD Officer Injured During Operation
The operation was personally supervised by the Additional Inspector General of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).
The senior officer sustained injuries after militants reportedly lobbed a grenade at him during the operation.
Police officials said security forces and police responded quickly after the attackers entered the Police Lines. Their response eventually allowed them to clear the compound and eliminate all eight terrorists.
The wounded were shifted to different hospitals for treatment. Meanwhile, authorities further tightened security around the Police Lines and surrounding areas.
Funeral Prayers Held for Victims
Funeral prayers for those killed in the attack were offered on Friday night.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hamid attended the prayers along with other senior officials. Police personnel, armed forces members and civilian officials also paid tribute to the victims.
A police contingent presented a guard of honour during the funeral proceedings. Afterward, the bodies were transported to their respective hometowns for burial.
IGP Vows Action Against Terrorists
Speaking during the funeral proceedings, KP IGP Zulfiqar Hamid said every drop of the martyrs’ blood would be accounted for.
He also vowed to pursue and eliminate those responsible for the attack. The IGP said the terrorists had nothing to do with the teachings of Islam.
According to the police chief, authorities were tracing the network linked to the attackers. He further said those who facilitated the terrorists would also be brought to justice.
The completion of the Kohat Police Lines operation marks the end of the clearance effort after the attackers entered the compound. Authorities have meanwhile continued security measures around the area following the deadly assault.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
