KABAL, Pakistan (Diya TV) — A suspected suicide bombing outside a police station in northwestern Pakistan killed at least 17 people and injured 34 others on Sunday, officials said. The attack struck the Kabal area in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It came as Pakistan continues to face growing militant violence in its border regions.

The explosion happened near a police station where local residents had gathered for a pro-police rally. However, authorities have not confirmed whether the rally was the intended target. Investigators have launched an operation to identify and arrest anyone who may have helped plan or support the attack.

The militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, also known as TTP, claimed responsibility for the bombing in a statement released after the blast. The group has carried out several attacks across Pakistan in recent months. As a result, security forces remain on high alert in many parts of the country.

According to Rescue 1122, at least 34 people suffered injuries in the explosion. Many victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment. Rescue teams responded quickly and continued search and relief efforts for several hours.

Initially, officials reported 14 deaths. However, the death toll later rose to 17 after three injured victims died in the hospital. Authorities said the victims included seven police officers and 10 civilians. Officials also believe one of those killed was the suspected suicide bomber.

Regional police official Fida Hussain said investigators believe the attacker detonated explosives outside the police station. Security teams have started collecting evidence from the scene. At the same time, investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the bombing. In an official statement, he offered condolences to the families of the victims. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured. Furthermore, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting terrorism across the country.

Meanwhile, police officers secured the blast site soon after the explosion. Security personnel also increased patrols in nearby areas to prevent further attacks. Officials urged residents to remain alert while the investigation continues.

The bombing highlights the continuing security challenges facing Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The region borders Afghanistan and has experienced frequent militant attacks over the past several years. Police stations, military personnel, and security checkpoints often remain primary targets for armed groups operating in the area.

In recent months, attacks against police and military forces have increased across Pakistan’s northwestern regions. Security officials have stepped up operations against militant networks. However, extremist groups continue to launch deadly assaults despite those efforts.

The Pakistani government has repeatedly blamed the Taliban-led administration in neighboring Afghanistan for allowing militants to operate from Afghan territory. Pakistani officials say these groups receive support and safe haven across the border. However, the Taliban government has consistently denied those allegations and rejected claims that it supports armed groups targeting Pakistan.

The latest bombing is expected to raise fresh concerns about security in the country. It also underscores the ongoing threat posed by militant organizations despite continued counterterrorism operations. Authorities have vowed to pursue everyone connected to the attack and bring those responsible to justice.

As investigators continue their work, officials have asked the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Emergency responders also remain ready to assist anyone affected by the blast. Meanwhile, hospitals continue treating the injured, while families mourn the lives lost in one of the deadliest attacks in the Swat region in recent months.

Pakistan has witnessed several major militant attacks over the past year. Security experts say sustained cooperation between intelligence agencies, police, and local communities will remain critical to reducing future violence. For now, investigators continue to examine evidence from the blast site as officials work to determine whether additional suspects played a role in planning the attack.