Peshawar FC Headquarters Under Siege Amid Rising Attacks

The Federal Constabulary headquarters in Peshawar was attacked Monday, prompting swift action from security forces. A suicide bomber detonated explosives at the entrance, followed by gunfire. This incident highlights the intensifying militant activity in Pakistan, a legacy of the Tehreek-i-Taliban's renewed campaign against the state.

The Federal Constabulary's (FC) headquarters in Peshawar faced a brazen attack on Monday, as confirmed by senior police officers to Dawn. Peshawar Capital City Police Officer Mian Saeed Ahmad stated, 'The FC headquarters is under attack' while confirming ongoing security operations and perimeter control efforts.

Security forces quickly mobilized in response to initial reports of an explosion and gunfire. Sources told Dawn that a suicide bomber executed the attack at the FC headquarters' entrance, triggering heavy gunfire in the vicinity.

This facility is situated in a densely populated area near a military cantonment, necessitating an urgent response. The attack spotlights the Federal Constabulary's role amid a rise in militant violence in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Dawn highlighted an increase in attacks post the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan's decision to end its ceasefire with the government in November 2022, announcing intentions to target security forces. This attack is part of a troubling pattern of violence across Pakistan.

Earlier this year, a car bomb outside paramilitary headquarters in Quetta resulted in the deaths of at least ten people, fueling further regional strain. On September 3, a suicide blast at a political rally in Quetta killed 11, injuring over 40, pointing to the persisting insurgency in Balochistan tallying 782 deaths in 2024.

The Baloch Liberation Army's March assault, involving a train seizure and the murder of off-duty troops, underscores the security challenges. With more than 430 people, mostly security personnel, killed since January, including six soldiers in Bannu, Pakistan confronts relentless militant threats. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)