School Bus attacked by unknown gunmen in Attock

In a heartbreaking incident, at least two children lost their lives, and five others were injured after gunmen opened fire on a school van in the Dheri Kot area of Attock, rescue officials reported on Thursday.

The children who were injured in the attack are between the ages of five and 12. They were quickly rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Among the deceased are a nine-year-old and a ten-year-old child. The injured include two eight-year-olds, a seven-year-old, a twelve-year-old, and a four-year-old, according to rescue officials.

In response to the tragedy, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has demanded a detailed report from Rawalpindi Commissioner Abdul Aamer Khattak. The Chief Minister also expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and instructed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured children.

Attack Linked to Personal Enmity

Attock Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza revealed that the attack on the school van was linked to the driver’s personal enmity. He explained that the driver had been targeted as part of a revenge attack. Last month, a forest official and his friend, related to this enmity, were killed, and the gunmen attacked the van driver to avenge those deaths. Unfortunately, the children were also caught in the crossfire.

The Deputy Commissioner stated that two girls sitting in the front seat with the driver were among those killed, while the driver himself was injured. A search operation is currently underway by the police and local authorities.

Nationwide Condemnation

The attack has sparked widespread condemnation across the country. President Asif Ali Zardari called the attack “cruel and shameful,” and urged the authorities to take strong action against those responsible.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the attack as “cruel and barbaric,” stressing that strict action must be taken against the perpetrators.

Punjab Governor Saleem Haider Khan also condemned the incident, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of young lives. He has ordered a swift investigation to ensure that the culprits are brought to justice as soon as possible.