Nowshera – A tragic suicide blast shook Darul Uloom Haqqania Akora Khattak on Friday, leaving eight people martyred, including JUI-S Chief Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, and injuring more than 17 others. The attack took place on the exit route of Jamia Masjid after Friday prayers, spreading chaos and panic among worshippers.
Case Registered Against Unknown Suspects
Authorities have swiftly launched an investigation, registering a case at the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Mardan. The complaint was lodged by Abdul Haq Sani, the son of Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani. The FIR includes serious charges related to:
Terrorism
Murder
Other criminal offenses
Authorities Seek Public Help to Identify Suicide Bomber
The CTD has appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the suicide bomber involved in this heinous act. To encourage cooperation, the authorities have announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for any information leading to the bomber’s identification.
Eyewitness Accounts: Fear and Devastation
According to eyewitnesses, the blast occurred moments after the Friday prayer congregation ended. Worshippers exiting the mosque were caught off guard as a loud explosion rocked the area. Within seconds, bodies lay scattered, and injured individuals cried for help.
One worshipper described the chaotic scene, stating:
“I was just a few steps away when I heard the explosion. Within moments, dust and smoke filled the air, and people were screaming in pain.”
Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani: A Great Loss for the Religious Community
Among the martyrs was Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, a prominent religious scholar and leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S). His father, Maulana Samiul Haq, often referred to as the “Father of the Taliban,” was assassinated in 2018. The Haqqania seminary, one of the most well-known religious institutions in Pakistan, has produced many scholars and influential leaders.
Political and Religious Leaders Condemn the Attack
The deadly attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political and religious leaders across the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari expressed their deep sorrow and condemnation, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: This cowardly act of terrorism is an attack on peace and stability. The government will ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi: Terrorists are trying to create unrest, but they will not succeed. Our security forces are fully prepared to eliminate such threats.
Religious leaders across Pakistan have also expressed their grief and called for strict security measures at religious institutions.
Investigation Underway: Who Is Behind the Attack?
Security forces and intelligence agencies have launched a full-scale investigation to determine who was behind the attack. No group has yet claimed responsibility, but experts suspect the involvement of militant organizations targeting religious figures.
Security Measures Increased
CTD and law enforcement agencies are collecting forensic evidence from the blast site.
Security has been tightened across Nowshera and other sensitive locations.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Pakistan’s Ongoing Battle Against Terrorism
Pakistan has witnessed numerous terrorist attacks in the past, especially targeting religious scholars, political leaders, and security forces. The resurgence of terrorist activities in recent months has raised concerns about national security.
Experts believe that such attacks are aimed at destabilizing peace and spreading fear.
The government has promised strict action against militants operating within the country.
The suicide attack at Darul Uloom Haqqania Akora Khattak has left Pakistan mourning the loss of innocent lives, especially that of Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani. As investigations continue, the nation demands justice and stricter security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the attacker to come forward, as the hunt for those responsible intensifies. The fight against terrorism continues, and Pakistan stands united against those who seek to destroy its peace.
