Tens killed, scores injured as Taliban gunmen attack Bacha Khan University in northwest Pakistan

Several gunmen have attacked Bacha Khan University in northwest Pakistan, reportedly killing up to 20 people and injuring 50 others. Students and teachers are alleged to have been on the premises at the time of the attack. Army troops have cordoned off the campus, and relatives of the students have gathered outside the premises. A military helicopter is circling over the area.

The exact number of attackers remains unconfirmed, with some reports saying there were eight gunmen, with at least two of them being killed in shooting with security forces. The Pakistani Taliban militant group claimed responsibility for the attack.

More than 50 people were injured in the attack, Provincial Minister Shaukat Yousafzai told the media. Fatalities have also been reported, with claims that as many as 20 people have been killed. The death toll could surge as rescue teams sweep the secured parts of the university for survivors and victims, a senior Charsadda district official told the media. Talking to reporters minutes after coming off the campus, he said the situation inside was very disturbing.

A police official said most of the students have been rescued. "All students have been evacuated from the hostels [on campus], but militants are still hiding in different parts of the university and some students and staff are stuck inside," Deputy Inspector General Saeed Wazir said.

The attack reportedly happened as the university was hosting a poetry event attended by around 600 guests.

The Bacha Khan University may have been chosen by the militants because January 20 is the date of death of Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, the Pashtun peace activist and spiritual leader, after whom the institution was named.

There are around 3,000 students at Bacha Khan University, Vice Chancellor Fazal Raheem told the media, Daily Pakistan reported. Pakistan’s Geo TV station is citing local police who say firing can be heard coming from inside the university.

https://www.rt.com/news/329513-gunmen-attack-university-pakistan/