Suicide attack during protest in Pakistan's Swat kills at least 14

Crime

Suicide attack during protest in Pakistan's Swat kills at least 14

40 minutes ago

News sources:

INDIATIMES

ALJAZEERA

LATIMES

REUTERS

Suicide attack during protest in Pakistan's Swat kills at least 14

Credited from: ALJAZEERA

At least 14 people have died in a suicide bombing during a protest in Pakistan's Swat district.
The attack targeted a crowd rallying against a surge in violence and militancy.
No group claimed immediate responsibility, though the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan is suspected.

A suicide bombing near a police station in Pakistan's Swat district on Sunday resulted in at least 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. The blast occurred as hundreds gathered for a protest against rising violence in the region. Witnesses noted that the bomber detonated his explosives shortly after police attempted to stop and search him at the police station entrance, according to Indiatimes.

The attack, which primarily targeted civilians and police officers, left at least 18 others wounded. Local officials have reported that the victims included five police officers and eight civilians, with the 14th victim assumed to be the bomber, confirmed Reuters and Al Jazeera.

The bombing occurred as demonstrators called for greater government action against militant threats that have surged in recent months. As they rallied with anti-militant slogans, a police officer reported that the blast caused widespread panic, injuring many, some critically, and forcing others to flee the scene. The Interior Minister of Pakistan condemned the attack, expressing sorrow for the victims' families, according to LA Times and Reuters.