Counterterrorism Blog

Another deadly suicide attack in Pakistan killed at least 15 people along with four policemen on Monday, October 01. Around 20 people have been injured in the blast. The bomber in Burqa (Veil) triggered the blast when approached by police during a frisking operation, near Afsar Chowk market in Bannu, a garrison town in the restive North West frontier Province. Pro Taliban and al Qaeda militants have increased their attacks in the area primarily on Pakistan Army and Paramilitary since the scrapping of a September 2006 peace deal (Waziristan Accord) with the government, followed by the storming of Lal Masjid in July this year. Militants have reasoned the truce termination with Pakistan government for later’s violation of terms of agreement and for unleasing attcks on Taliban during the truce period.

Even though police sources claimed to have intelligence inputs that burqa- clad male suicide bombers will be perpetrating attacks on key military and civilian targets, they failed to thwart Monday morning attack. However, it can’t be ruled out that female suicide bombers are also on the prowl and could be behind today's blast. There were reports that this attack also targeted a military convoy passing through the town, however, denied by Army sources.

Photo UPDATE: Source: Associated Press.

Suicide attacker in an auto-rickshaw blown himself up at bus stop in Bannu. The blast killed 16 persons and wounded 31 others.