Pakistan: Suicide bombing attack kills two in Punjab province May 3

Event

A suicide bomber attacked a bus carrying workers of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission in Attock district (Punjab province) on Thursday, May 3, killing two people and wounding at least 13 others. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Police have reportedly deployed to the area and have cordoned off the site of the attack. Localized traffic disruptions are possible in the immediate vicinity of the incident.

Context

The threat of terrorism and sectarian violence has been high throughout Pakistan in recent years, with the main threat coming from Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Government personnel, government institutions, and security forces, including police, are often targeted. Places of worship are also frequently targeted in attacks.

Advice

Individuals in Punjab province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, report all suspicious objects and behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

More generally, due to the high threat of terrorism and other forms of violent crime, individuals in Pakistan are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities (their diplomatic mission or security manager). As a reminder, all Western embassies in Pakistan advise their citizens against nonessential travel to the country. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place.