Pakistan’s bishops condemn attack on police compound, pray for peace

Catholic bishops in Pakistan condemned a militant attack on a police compound in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, that killed 21 people and wounded 103 others. The violence began Friday when a suicide bomber drove an explosive-laden vehicle into the complex, followed by gunmen. The compound houses offices and living quarters for the Counter Terrorism Department.

Bishop Samson Shukardin, president of the Pakistan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, expressed condolences to the families of the dead and the survivors. He stated that the attack was against humanity and noted that people visit mosques to seek peace and should feel safe in places of prayer. Shukardin added that Pakistan is already suffering significantly from terrorism and various disasters.

The standoff between security forces and the militants ended on Saturday. Many of the victims were police officers or worshippers, as the coordinated attack occurred during traditional Friday prayers.