17 Killed, 73 Injured in Suicide Attack on Mosque at Old Police Lines in Kohat
According to reports by UrduPoint (September 18, 2026), a devastating suicide attack occurred during Friday prayers at a mosque within the old Police Lines in Kohat, resulting in at least 17 deaths and 73 injuries.
District Hospital Kohat Medical Superintendent Dr Tahir Ali Shah confirmed the rising death toll, stating that 17 individuals, including five police personnel, lost their lives. He also revealed that 15 critically injured victims were transferred to Peshawar for specialized treatment.
Initial investigations suggest a vehicle laden with explosives rammed into the Police Lines, causing the mosque to collapse. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed reported an exchange of fire between police and armed militants following the explosion.
The blast occurred at approximately 1:15 p.m. while worshipers were gathered for Friday prayers. Spokesperson Bilal Ahmed Faizi of Rescue 1122 provided further details, stating that a large number of people were present in the mosque at the time.
Following the attack, seven armed militants attempted to infiltrate the Police Lines. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued between police and the attackers, resulting in the deaths of six militants, including a suicide bomber and a sniper. The clearance operation was still underway as reports spread.
The Hangu-Kohat Road was closed to traffic due to the incident. The mosque sustained significant damage and collapsed. Rescue 1122 personnel, police officials, and local residents swiftly launched rescue efforts, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals.
This senseless act of violence has shocked the nation, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by security forces and civilians alike in the region.