Swat district police officer Umar Khan told the media that the suspected attacker blew himself up when police tried to stop and search him at the station gate. The blast occurred as hundreds of people were peacefully demonstrating at the nearby Kabal Chowk against the recent surge in terrorism and violence in the Swat Valley.
Immediately after the blast, security forces and police cordoned off the area and began rescue and relief operations. All the injured were immediately admitted to the nearby Saidu Sharif Teaching Hospital for treatment, where several remain in critical condition. The horrific attack caused panic among protesters. Although no terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the attack as of this time, police and security forces are conducting a thorough investigation.