ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the suicide bombing in the Kabal area of Swat, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives and reaffirming the country's resolve to combat terrorism.
At least 14 people, including police officials, were martyred and at least 18 others injured in a suicide attack on Swat’s Kabal police station on Sunday, police and rescue officials said.
Swat police spokesperson Nasir Iqbal Karimi, talking to the media, confirmed the death toll.
Malakand Division Deputy Inspector General of Police Fida Hussain told AFP that police officers were among those martyred.
According to the Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Umar Khan, the suicide bomber detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station.
The DPO said that the police remained on high alert. “Security forces have cordoned off the area, and an investigation is underway to collect further evidence,“ he added.
The explosion occurred near the gate of Kabal police station while hundreds of people were participating in a public demonstration at nearby Kabal Chowk against the recent wave of terrorism in Swat Valley.
President Zardari
In a statement issued from the media wing of President House in Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the suicide blast and expressed profound grief over the tragic loss of lives.
The statement said, “The President prayed for the departed souls, extended condolences to the bereaved families, and wished a swift recovery for the injured.”
He directed the concerned institutions to provide the best medical facilities to those receiving treatment.
According to the statement, President Zardari said terrorists would never succeed in their nefarious designs to undermine peace, national unity, and the writ of the state.
He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police and other law enforcement agencies, describing them as a source of pride for the entire nation.
The president also called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident and stressed that all those responsible for the terrorist attack must be brought to justice.
Prime Minister Sharif
In a separate statement, issued from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack.
He prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the deceased and for strength and patience for the bereaved families.
The prime minister also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and directed the relevant authorities to ensure the provision of the best possible medical treatment to the victims.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to combating terrorism, the prime minister said Pakistan's struggle against the menace would continue until its complete eradication.
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