Suicide attack on Islamabad Judicial Complex; 12 killed, 27 injured

12 killed, 27 injured / Photo File (@thenews_intl)

A suicide bombing at the G-11 Judicial Complex in Islamabad left 12 people dead and 27 injured, officials said, after an attacker detonated himself near the courthouse entrance, sowing panic and damaging nearby vehicles. Emergency teams and police rushed to the scene and took control of the area.

Police sources said the attacker, riding a motorcycle, approached a police vehicle outside the court and detonated an explosive, killing bystanders including lawyers and appellants. Officials recovered the bomber’s remains at the blast site, and three vehicles — one police and two private cars — were reported damaged by the fire that followed the explosion. The PIMS hospital placed its emergency unit on alert as casualties arrived.

The military’s media wing and federal authorities accused the India-backed proxy groups Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, and alleged coordination with elements linked to the Afghan Taliban. The claims were echoed by senior ministers, who warned of cross-border sponsorship of terror attacks and promised a full investigation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack as an example of “state-sponsored terrorism” and directed authorities to provide best possible medical care for the wounded, seek swift justice for the perpetrators, and pursue those who support proxy networks. He said the nation’s sympathies were with the families of the martyrs.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, after visiting the blast site, said the bomber had planned to enter the court but, failing that, targeted a police van instead. He ordered a prompt probe and instructed Islamabad police to submit a detailed report and arrest the culprits. Inspector General Ali Nasser Rizvi briefed officials at the scene.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called the attack a nationwide wake-up call and vowed decisive action, saying such terrorism—whether in border or urban areas—would be met with force. Security sources also reported provocative anti-Pakistan chants at recent events in Afghanistan and alleged threats from Taliban-linked digital channels. Authorities said clearance and follow-up operations would continue until the threat is neutralized.