In a major security breakthrough, police in the Chamkani area of Peshawar thwarted a potential suicide bombing aimed at a political rally organized by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F).
According to security sources, the suicide attacker was en route to the rally location but was intercepted at a police checkpoint. During the search, the suspect detonated the explosives, resulting in the martyrdom of a sub-inspector and another police officer. Three other personnel sustained injuries in the blast.
Initial investigations confirm that the intended target was the JUI-F gathering. The party has previously been targeted in similar attacks, with several leaders falling victim to targeted killings across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Just months ago, the district administration in Dera Ismail Khan had issued an advisory to JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, warning that the banned group ISIS-Khorasan had assigned a hitman to target him. The advisory urged him to limit his public movements and enhance personal security.
ISIS-Khorasan has repeatedly claimed responsibility for attacks on JUI-F rallies and leadership through its social media channels.
Following the incident on Peshawar’s Ring Road, law enforcement and security agencies cordoned off the area and launched a thorough investigation. Meanwhile, JUI-F leaders have reportedly intensified their security measures in response.
Police officials have hailed the bravery and sacrifice of the martyred officers, emphasizing the critical role they played in averting a large-scale tragedy.
