CCTV footage, movement logs point to possible insider facilitation in the coordinated assault.
Coordinated Attack on FC Headquarters
PESHAWAR — Investigators and intelligence agencies have launched a major operation to trace facilitators behind Monday’s terrorist assault on the Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters in Peshawar, which left three personnel martyred and 12 others injured.
The attack began when a suicide bomber detonated himself at the entrance of the headquarters on Sonehri Masjid Road. Within moments, his two armed accomplices attempted to storm the facility but were swiftly neutralised by snipers and FC personnel before they could penetrate deeper into the premises.
Initial findings suggest the attackers had planned to target the FC’s weekly assembly, where nearly 400 personnel were gathered near the main gate.
Bombers Neutralised by Sniper Fire and APC Team
Capital City Police Officer Dr. Mian Saeed Ahmad said the first militant blew himself up at the gate, while two others managed to enter a motorcycle parking area inside the compound.
Snipers and an armoured personnel carrier (APC) team engaged them with precision fire, preventing a catastrophic breach. The attackers sustained critical injuries before being eliminated.
Investigators say the militants reached the area at 7:35am but only executed the attack at 7:50am, raising questions about their prolonged presence near the main gate.
Possible Insider Facilitation Suspected
A senior official involved in the probe said CCTV footage showed the first bomber moving near the gate twice — once on a motorcycle and later on foot — before detonating himself.
“The real question is: how did he remain unchallenged for 25 minutes? This delay is concerning and hints at potential facilitation from within,” the official noted.
The other two attackers, captured on CCTV near Nishtar Hall and Charsadda Road, carried backpacks believed to contain materials for taking hostages.
Afghan Link Established in Initial Probe
According to the state-run APP, all three terrorists were Afghan nationals. Weapons, explosives, and communication devices were recovered from them.
The militants’ identities are being verified, while intelligence teams focus on uncovering local handlers, transport providers, safe houses, and any insiders who may have enabled the attackers.
The government is expected to announce enhanced security protocols for federal installations in the coming days.
Emergency Declared Across Hospitals
Shortly after the attack, BRT services were halted and Sonehri Masjid Road was sealed for all traffic except emergency vehicles. Eleven injured personnel were shifted to Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), while one was taken to Khyber Teaching Hospital.
Condemnations from Leadership
During a visit to LRH, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the assault, calling it an attempt to destabilise the province and the country.
“Those who carry out such acts are enemies of Pakistan. We will not allow them to achieve their objectives,” he said.
The CM sought a detailed report from the KP police chief and directed the utilisation of all available resources to bring the attackers’ facilitators to justice. He noted that modern equipment for the police had been ordered, but deliveries were delayed.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the FC personnel for their swift action, saying it prevented far greater loss. He prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
President Asif Ali Zardari, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti also issued statements condemning the attack and expressing condolences to the families of the martyrs.