The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) investigation team continues its probe into the September 18 suicide attack on the Old Police Lines in Kohat, with investigators uncovering important details regarding the planning, movement and logistics involved in the attack.
According to investigating authorities, the attackers used a vehicle loaded with explosives and a rickshaw to reach the vicinity of the police lines. The suicide bomber reportedly travelled in the rickshaw, while two other terrorists arrived on a motorcycle.
Investigators have established that the attackers were equipped with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), hand grenades and heavy weapons. The findings indicate that the assault involved significant preparation and logistical support, with the attackers allegedly carrying multiple types of explosives and weaponry as they moved towards their target.
Investigators have also determined that the police lines were repeatedly reconnoitred before the attack, indicating that the attackers had gathered information about the location and its security arrangements in advance.
The CTD investigation has also expanded beyond the individuals directly involved in the assault, with authorities pursuing those who allegedly provided logistical assistance to the attackers. According to investigating officials, action is being taken against facilitators who provided accommodation to the attackers and helped them gain access to the police lines.
The investigation is focused on identifying the complete support network behind the attack, including individuals who may have assisted with accommodation, transportation, reconnaissance, weapons, explosives or access to the target.
Investigators have recovered several pieces of evidence linked to the incident, with some important material being forwarded for forensic examination. The forensic analysis is expected to assist investigators in establishing additional details concerning the explosives and weapons used in the attack, as well as potentially identifying links between the attackers and their wider support network.
Authorities are examining the available evidence alongside information gathered during the investigation to establish the sequence of events leading up to the attack.
The continuing CTD probe is aimed not only at determining how the attackers reached the Old Police Lines but also at identifying every individual who facilitated the operation. Investigators are examining the attackers’ movements, their use of different modes of transportation, prior reconnaissance of the site, the provision of accommodation and the means through which they were able to approach the police installation.
The investigation into the September 18 attack remains ongoing, while further action against individuals found to have facilitated or supported the operation is expected as additional evidence is analysed. The developments underline the importance of dismantling the logistical and facilitation networks that enable terrorist attacks, alongside action against those directly involved in carrying them out.
