Explosion at Mosque in Northwestern Pakistan Kills at Least Seven

KOHAT, Pakistan — A powerful explosion struck a mosque near police offices in the Kohat district of northwestern Pakistan on Thursday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring more than 30 others. The blast occurred shortly after 10:10 a.m. local time, sending debris into surrounding streets and causing significant damage to the religious structure and adjacent government facilities.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province immediately following the detonation. Medical teams transported the wounded to nearby hospitals, where several were listed in critical condition. Local authorities have cordoned off the area around the mosque and the police station to secure the site for investigation and recovery operations.

The identity of those responsible for the attack remains unknown. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the incident. The target's proximity to a police installation has raised concerns among security officials, though no official statement has been released regarding the motive or the nature of the explosive device used. Witnesses described a deafening roar followed by thick smoke rising from the compound as congregants and nearby residents fled in panic.

The attack marks a significant escalation in violence within the region, which has faced periodic security challenges in recent years. The mosque was reportedly hosting worshippers at the time of the blast, contributing to the high casualty count. Local officials confirmed that the victims included both men and women, with many sustaining severe injuries from shrapnel and structural collapse.

Security forces have increased patrols throughout Kohat district as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the explosion. The Pakistani government has not yet issued a formal condemnation or identified any specific threats linked to the incident. Families of the victims gathered outside hospitals, awaiting news on the condition of their loved ones.

As rescue efforts continue, questions remain regarding the origin of the attack and whether it was part of a coordinated effort. Authorities have not disclosed if any suspects were apprehended in the immediate aftermath. The full extent of the damage to the police offices and the mosque is still being assessed by engineering teams. With no clear explanation for the violence, residents in Kohat remain on edge as the investigation proceeds into one of the deadliest incidents in the province this year.