Northwest Pakistan is experiencing a resurgence of militant violence, as evidenced by coordinated attacks on police personnel in recent days. At least five police officers were killed on Tuesday in attacks targeting vehicles in the region.
Recent Attacks
The first attack occurred in the Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Gunmen ambushed a police vehicle, killing one officer. Shortly after, as reinforcements arrived, a second attack killed four more officers, according to local police official Kamran Khan.
The violence followed a separate incident on Monday in the nearby Karak area. Attackers used a drone carrying explosives to target a paramilitary post, injuring personnel. While transporting the wounded, two ambulances were ambushed, resulting in the deaths of three officers. Attackers set the bodies on fire before fleeing the scene, though one driver managed to evacuate other wounded officers despite suffering burn injuries.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for either this week’s attacks, but authorities suspect Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, often referred to as the Pakistani Taliban. The TTP is distinct from, but maintains ties with, Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers. Pakistan has accused the TTP of operating from within Afghanistan, allegations denied by both the TTP and the Taliban administration in Kabul.
These attacks come after Pakistan’s armed forces reported killing at least 70 militants in strikes along the Afghan border on Sunday, targeting suspected hideouts linked to recent attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What province were the attacks in?
The attacks took place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, specifically in the Kohat and Karak districts.
Who is suspected of being behind the attacks?
While no group has claimed responsibility, suspicion is likely to fall on Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP.
What happened after the initial attack in Kohat?
As additional personnel responded to the first attack in Kohat, the assailants launched a second attack, killing four more officers.
As security challenges mount in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with militant attacks intensifying in recent months, what steps might regional authorities take to address the escalating violence?
