Pakistan: VBIED attack leaves six wounded in Peshawar January 5

Event

A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated in the Kalibari area of Peshawar (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province) on Saturday, January 5, leaving six people wounded. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Similar attacks are possible in Peshawar over the near term.

Context

Multiple terrorist organizations are present in the areas around Peshawar, including Al-Qai'da and Islamic State (IS) affiliates, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, and the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban, among other militant groups. Militant attacks are common in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Advice

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, many Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travel to Pakistan. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place.