Suicide bomber kills at least 7, injures 18 near Swat police

A suicide bomber attacked a peace rally near a police station in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday, killing at least seven people and wounding more than 20 others. The attack occurred in Kabal, a town in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, as demonstrators gathered to protest against militancy and demand improved security.

According to police officials, the attacker attempted to enter the Kabal Police Station but was stopped by personnel at the main gate. The assailant then detonated an explosive vest, causing a blast that killed both civilians and police officers. Regional police officials confirmed at least five police officers were among the dead. The total casualty figures reported by authorities varied, with some officials stating seven fatalities and more than 20 injuries, while others reported up to 14 killed and more than two dozen wounded. Rescue teams transported the injured to nearby hospitals, including Swat Central Hospital and Saidu Sharif Teaching Hospital.

The rally, organized by a local tribal council known as the Swat Aman Jirga, featured participants carrying placards and chanting slogans against militant groups. The Swat Valley, once a stronghold...