Peshawar Blast: Targeted Violence and Growing Security Concerns

06-12-2023

Hasom Jang

Pakistan Researcher,

Global Human Rights Defence.

In a disturbing incident on Warsak Road, Peshawar, a targeted explosion aimed at police personnel has left at least seven people injured, including three children aged between 7 to 10 years.[1] The blast occurred around 9:10 am and involved an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden in a cement block on the roadside.[1] The police vehicle from Machnigate Police Station was the apparent target, and two children are currently in critical condition at Lady Reading Hospital.[2]

Superintendent Police Arshad Khan, who was at the location, stated that a search operation is currently in progress in the nearby areas, and as of now, no arrests have been made. [2] The complex nature of the incident is evident, as authorities consider the possibility of extortion as a motive. The examination of CCTV footage is assisting in the ongoing investigation.[2]

The heartbreaking dimension of this incident lies in the involvement of innocent children. The ages of the affected children raise questions about the indiscriminate nature of the attack. The blast occurred near a school, raising concerns about the safety of educational institutions in the region.[3]

Local authorities, including Mayor Metropolitan Zubair Ali, labeled the incident an attempt to disturb peace and order, particularly near a school.[1] Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to protect children, the future of the country.[3] Caretaker KP Chief Minister Justice (retd) Arshad Hussain Shah also condemned the blast and called for a comprehensive report on the incident.[3]

This incident comes at a critical time as Pakistan approaches general elections, scheduled for February 8.[3] Security challenges, highlighted by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Ghulam Ali, may impact political activities in the region.[3] The Awami National Party (ANP) provincial president, Aimal Wali Khan, expressed concern over the recurring terror activities near educational institutions and urged immediate action from law enforcement.[3]

Sources and further readings:

[1] ‘Three Children among 7 Injured in Peshawar Explosion Targeting Police’ <https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1135325-2-kids-injured-in-peshawar-blast> accessed 5 December 2023

[2] ‘3 Children among 7 Injured in Peshawar Blast Targeting Police’ <https://www.geo.tv/latest/521694-at-least-two-children-injured-in-peshawar-blast> accessed 5 December 2023

[3] Hayat ZI| A, ‘Children among 6 Wounded in IED Blast on Peshawar’s Warsak Road: Police’ (DAWN.COM, 10:03:35+05:00) <https://www.dawn.com/news/1795221> accessed 5 December 2023

[4] ‘5 Including 4 Children Injured In Blast In Pakistan’s Peshawar’ (NDTV.com) <https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/5-including-4-children-injured-in-blast-pakistans-peshawar-4634741> accessed 5 December 2023