A suicide bomber detonated at a protest rally in Kabal, Swat Valley, killing at least 14 people and injuring 18. The explosion occurred in front of the local police station as demonstrators protested rising militancy; five of the dead were policemen. No group has claimed responsibility. President Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif condemned the attack and authorities have launched an investigation.
Suicide Bomber Kills At Least 14 At Rally In Malala's Hometown, Swat Valley
FILE PHOTO - Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif (L) exchanges views with THE newly elected President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, to congratulate him on his victory in the Presidential elections. (is associated with: «Suicide bomber kills at least 14 people in Malala's home town») -/PPI via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
A suicide bomber struck a public rally in the Kabal area of Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Sunday, killing at least 14 people and wounding 18, officials said. The blast occurred in front of the local police station as hundreds had gathered to protest a recent rise in militancy.
What Happened
According to Bilal Faizai, spokesman for the provincial rescue department, five of the dead were policemen. Videos and images circulating on social media showed a speaker addressing the crowd when a powerful explosion triggered panic and chaos.
A local police official said the attacker detonated himself when he was approached for a search in front of the police station. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.
Official Response
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued statements condemning the bombing. In a statement President Zardari said “terrorists will never succeed in their nefarious efforts to harm peace, national unity and the writ of the state.”
Context: Swat Valley was controlled by the Taliban between 2007 and 2009 before being retaken by a military offensive. The district is also where Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai was shot by a Taliban gunman in 2012.
Authorities have launched an investigation and emergency services were treating the wounded. Local officials urged residents to remain calm while security forces secure the area and gather evidence.
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