After Kohat Explosion, Questions Mount Over KP’s Counterterrorism Approach
KOHAT, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - September 18, 2026) | 09:20 PM
A suicide bomber struck a mosque in old Police Lines on Friday afternoon, killing at least 22 people, including 15 police personnel, and injuring 85 others in one of the deadliest attacks targeting law enforcement in Kohat in recent months.
The deadly attack has devastated families and reignited debate over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Government's counterterrorism policy, as security challenges continue to confront police personnel serving on the frontline against terrorism.
IGP Zulfiqar Hameed reported that the suicide bomber attempted to enter old Police Lines but was intercepted by security personnel and killed them all. The bomber detonated his explosive-laden vehicle at the outer wall of the mosque, causing the casualties.
Following the Kohat explosion:
- Security was tightened across Peshawar and adjoining districts.
- Police, CTD personnel, and other law enforcement agencies increased patrols around police stations, government offices, markets, and sensitive installations.
- Snap checking was intensified at entry and exit points.
- All district police officers across Kohat, Hangu, and Peshawar were directed to review security arrangements at police stations, strengthen access control systems, and enhance vigilance against follow-up attacks.
Senior police officials emphasized the continuing threat posed by terrorist elements targeting police and security forces.
Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, a former IGP of KP, questioned how the suspected terrorist accessed old Police Lines and blew up his vehicle. He criticized the KP government for not providing armored carrier vehicles to police, suggesting that this contributed to the attack. He also called for strengthening the Special Branch department and increasing personnel in Elite Force and CTD.
"The response of police prevented a much larger tragedy," acknowledged Akhtar Ali Shah, "however, evolving tactics of militants required constant review of security protocols, intelligence sharing, and protective measures."
Outside DHQ hospital, relatives anxiously waited for news of injured loved ones, many of whom remained in critical condition. Police officers embraced grieving colleagues while volunteers donated blood for the victims. Funeral preparations began soon after the attack.