Suicide Blast Rocks Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 15 Killed, Including 5 Security Personnel; Peace March Turns Into tragedy

New Delhi: A devastating explosion struck a peace march in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday, killing at least 15 people, including five security personnel, and leaving 12 others critically injured. The blast occurred near the Kabal police station in Swat district, with preliminary reports indicating it was a suicide attack, though authorities have yet to officially confirm the nature of the explosion.

According to the Regional Police Officer (RPO) of Malakand, the explosion took place during the ‘Aman Pasoon’ (Peace March), organized by the local Swat Aman Jirga to demand improved security and lasting peace in the region. Thousands of participants had gathered with placards and were raising slogans for peace when the powerful blast ripped through the rally, triggering panic and chaos.

Police officials said the attack appeared to have specifically targeted security personnel deployed for the march. Among the deceased are five police officers and several civilians. Rescue teams rushed to the scene, shifting the injured to nearby hospitals, where many remain in critical condition. Authorities fear the death toll could rise.

Following the attack, security forces sealed off the area and launched a massive search operation. Police, along with other security agencies, have begun investigating the incident, but no group has claimed responsibility so far.

The attack has intensified fears among residents, who have already been grappling with worsening security conditions in the region. In response, the administration has ordered heightened security measures across the area as investigations continue.