ALBAWABA- Pakistani security forces on Monday thwarted a suicide bombing outside Cadet College Wana, a prestigious high school in South Waziristan’s volatile tribal district, preventing what officials described as a potential massacre among hundreds of students.
The blast, which occurred at the college’s main gate, injured at least six civilians and triggered intense gunfire exchanges in the surrounding hills, witnesses said.
According to security officials, the attacker detonated his explosive vest after being intercepted by guards at the entrance. No cadets were harmed. Quick action by perimeter patrols reportedly repelled accompanying assailants, with up to five militants shot dead in the ensuing clash.
Earlier reports suggesting more than 30 casualties were dismissed by provincial health authorities, who confirmed six injuries, mostly from shrapnel and concussive impact.
The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) later claimed responsibility, branding the assault part of its campaign against what it called “symbols of occupation.”
Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir condemned the bombing as a “cowardly act,” ordering reinforcements to the area as schools closed and markets emptied amid fear of further attacks.
The attempted bombing highlights Pakistan’s escalating struggle against resurgent militancy in 2025, already the deadliest year since the Taliban’s 2021 return to power in Afghanistan.
