CTD registers terror case over deadly Kohat Police Lines attack

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has registered a terrorism case following the deadly attack on the old Police Lines in Kohat, which claimed the lives of at least 21 people.

The case was registered at a CTD police station on the complaint of the Station House Officer (SHO) of Kohat City Police Station. The FIR names unidentified terrorists and includes charges related to terrorism, murder, attempted murder and other offences.

The attack took place on Friday when an explosives-laden vehicle exploded near a mosque inside the Kohat Police Lines. The blast was followed by an armed assault on the police compound, where the attackers opened fire and threw hand grenades.

According to the FIR, militants affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan faction, referred to in the report as Fitna al-Khawarij, carried out the attack. The assailants allegedly used the mosque area to gain access to the Police Lines before advancing into the compound under heavy gunfire.

Police personnel and civilians were among those affected in the attack. Security officials confronted the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle as the assault unfolded.

Personnel from the army, police and CTD later arrived at the site and took part in the security operation. The operation was aimed at containing the attackers and securing the Police Lines premises.

The FIR stated that the suicide explosion, gunfire and grenade attacks resulted in 21 deaths and left several others injured. The assault also caused extensive damage to government and private property.

Police have launched a further investigation into the attack. Authorities are also working to identify the terrorists involved and trace their facilitators and other individuals linked to the assault.