The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed responsibility for deadly suicide attack. A TTP Central Spokesman, Muhammad Khurasani identified suicide bomber as Mujahid Abdul Karim, who targeted ANP leader, Haroon Bilour last night before addressing a public rally at Yaktooth area of the interior city.
Khurasani warned people to distance themselves from ANP gatherings and election allies because we had already announced war against it, otherwise, they would be responsible for their losses.
The funeral prayers of 10 victims have been offered on Wednesday amid moving scenes whereas funeral prayer of ANP leader Haroon Bilour was offered at Wazir Bagh Peshawar. A large number of people attended the funeral prayers. Police said 19 bodies were brought to Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar while one expired at Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar.
The victims are identified as Zameer Khan son of Madad Khan of 18 years age, Arif Hussain son of Qamabar Ali age 25, Haji Muhammad Gul son of Sheikh Jan 45, Imranullah son of Usman Khan 30, Najeeb son of Rehmatullah 20, Muhammad Shoaib son of Shafiullah 19, Asif son of Tawas 28, Huzaiafa son of Naveed 12, Haroon Bilour 47, one young boy of around 20 years age in unkown.
As many as 13 injured are being treated at Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar while 53 in Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar.
The conditions of several victims are stated to be critical. The blast rocked ANP election rally at Yakatoot on Tuesday night moments after Haroon Bilour candidate of ANP for PK 78 arrived to address the supporters waiting for him.
A seven members Joint Investigation Committee has been constituted on the direction of Caretaker provincial government to investigate Yakatoot incident. Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) will head the Joint Investigation Team.
The police force has been directed to remain high alter all times and make snap checking more effective at all entry and exit points of the city. The police and counter-terrorism department have been carrying out joint search operation in various areas and over all security of the city have been beefed up.
Directions have been issued to Regional Police Officers and District Police Officers those candidates must take permission from concerned police stations before holdings corner meeting s so that property security could be given. Police have been directed to provide security on prior information of holding rallies and corner meetings.
Grief and sorrow prevailed in Peshawar and people are coming to residence of former Federal Minister Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour to condole death of his nephew, Haroon Bilour. The people are condemning the attack and termed it a cowardice act of terrorism. The people are praying Fateha for departed souls.