KOHAT, Pakistan — September 19, 2026: The death toll from a major attack on a police compound in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has risen to at least 31, according to a senior police official cited by AFP. More than 100 people have reportedly been injured.
The assault began on Friday at the Old Police Lines complex in Kohat, where police officers and their families had gathered at a mosque for Friday prayers.
According to officials, an attacker drove an explosives-filled vehicle into the police facility, triggering a powerful blast. Armed attackers then entered the compound, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire with security personnel.
The police complex houses several important units, including the Counter-Terrorism Department and Special Branch, making it a significant security facility in the area.
Security Operation Continues
Following the initial explosion, security forces launched an operation to clear the compound. Fighting continued for hours as militants were reported to have taken positions inside parts of the facility.
Authorities later said the security operation had ended after an extended standoff. Earlier reports from the Associated Press put the number killed at 21 and said 103 people were wounded, illustrating how quickly the casualty figures have been updated as rescue and security operations progressed.
AFP’s latest report put the death toll at 31, including 16 police personnel, with more than 100 people injured.
Attack During Friday Prayers
The attack occurred while worshippers were gathered for Friday prayers, adding to the severity of the incident. Images from the scene showed damaged buildings, rubble and emergency vehicles surrounding the police compound.
Rescue and medical teams were deployed to treat the wounded, while security personnel searched the area after the fighting.
Responsibility for the Attack
A militant group identified by AFP as Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan, described as a faction linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility, according to the agency. Earlier Reuters reporting said TTP itself had denied involvement.
The differing claims surrounding responsibility remain part of the developing investigation.
Kohat is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a region that has faced repeated militant attacks in recent years. The latest assault is expected to prompt further scrutiny of security arrangements around police and government facilities.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the attack, while hospitals are treating those injured. Officials have warned that the casualty figures could change as additional information becomes available.
