Swat-Special Correspondent)-A roadside bomb targeted a convoy carrying foreign diplomats in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Sunday, killing policeman Burhan Khan and injuring three others. The diplomats from 12 countries, including Bosnia, Russia, and Portugal, escaped unharmed.
The attack occurred near Jehanabad on Malam Jabba Road, where the convoy was traveling after attending the Swat Tourism Summit. The police mobile leading the convoy was hit by the blast, triggered by a remote-controlled device.
Malakand Deputy Inspector General of Police Mohammad Ali Gandapur confirmed that the diplomats were shifted to a safe location before departing for Islamabad.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which comes amid an uptick in terrorist attacks in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Condemnations and Reactions
President Asif Ali Zardari and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack, paying tribute to the martyred policeman and expressing sympathy for the bereaved family.
The Foreign Office also condemned the attack, confirming that the diplomats safely reached Islamabad.
The Foreign Office Spokesperson on Sunday confirmed that the diplomats traveling with the convoy that was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) near Mallam Jabba, Swat remained unhurt and have safely returned to islamabad
In a press release, the spokesperson said that a police convoy escorting a group of diplomats near Malam Jabba, Swat, was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) today, resulting in the martyrdom of one policeman and injuries to three others.
The group of diplomats was traveling to Islamabad after their trip to Malam Jabba and Swat.
“Our sympathies are with the families of the Shaheed policeman and three injured in the incident,” the spokesperson said.
“We honour our law enforcement authorities that remain steadfast in the face of terrorists. Such acts will not deter Pakistan from its commitment towards the fight against terrorism,” the spokesperson added.
The Russian Embassy in Islamabad stated that Ambassador Albert P. Khorev was among the diplomats and that the escort vehicle hit a mine.
Recent Surge in Violence
Pakistan has seen a significant increase in attacks targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies since the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement with the banned TTP in 2022. Residents of Swat and Lower Dir have protested against the attacks, demanding action against those responsible.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has strongly condemned the blast near a police van in the Malm Jabba, Swat.
Interior Minister paid homage to Police Constable Burhan Khan who embraced martyrdom in the blast. He expressed heartfelt condolences to his family. He also prayed for the swift recovery of injured police personnels.
Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute Burhan Khan’s ultimate sacrifice while performing his duty. He also acknowledged that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has made invaluable sacrifices in the war against terrorism.
“We salute the brave son of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, martyr Burhan Khan,” he said.
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