Swat Suicide Attack: Death Toll Rises to 17, 12 Still Hospitalised
Peshawar, August 3, 2026: The death toll in a suicide attack on a police station during a peace rally in northwest Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province rose to 17 on Monday, after three more injured persons succumbed to their wounds, police said.
The explosion occurred on Sunday when the Swat Peace Rally, organised by the Swat Aman Jirga (local tribal council), was passing by the police station in Kabal town, Swat district. The rally was aimed at demanding peace in the region, with participants carrying placards and raising slogans.
According to officials, at least 14 people, including five security personnel, were killed on the spot, and over a dozen were wounded. The three additional deaths were reported at Saidu Sharif Teaching Hospital, where the injured were being treated. Police confirmed that among the deceased are seven police personnel and ten civilians.
Twelve injured persons, including eight police personnel and four civilians, remain under treatment at the hospital, according to police. The condition of some of the injured is stated to be critical.
No group or individual has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The bombing comes amid growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the area.
Participants of the peace rally had earlier alleged that police inaction had contributed to the worsening security situation in recent months. The attack has raised fresh questions about the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Security forces have cordoned off the area and are conducting search operations. The provincial government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and the injured.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in tackling militancy, even as local communities attempt to promote peace through such rallies.
