A peaceful protest turned into a scene of devastation in seconds after a suicide bomber struck an anti-militancy rally in Pakistan's Swat district, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens more.

The deadly blast occurred near the Kabal police station, where a meeting of the Aman Pasoon (Peace Movement) was being held and hundreds of people had assembled to show their protest against terrorism and growing militant activity. Reports said security staff had stopped the alleged attacker from entering the crowd, but he detonated explosives near a police checkpoint, killing and wounding many.

Eight police officers were confirmed among the dead and about 24 others were injured and taken to nearby hospitals, officials said. Emergency teams responded quickly as panic set in around the blast area.

The banned militant outfit, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has claimed responsibility for the attack, which is being described as the latest in a string of major attacks in a region which has seen a resurgence of militant violence in recent years. The region of Swat, once a bastion of militant groups, is seeing a renewed sense of insecurity despite years of military operations to restore stability.

The attack has prompted national outrage. The tragedy has drawn grief from many top personalities including former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi who have pleaded the nation to unite against terrorism. Local journalists and community leaders also called for greater protection for civilians engaged in peaceful protests.

This is the sign of continuing security problems in Pakistan, particularly in the country’s northwestern region along the border with Afghanistan. Authorities are trying to determine whether the attacker acted alone or was part of a larger network.

What this tragedy shows us is that the fight against extremism is not over. That communities are still coming together to stand for peace in the face of violence.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)