LOC22:24
19:24 GMT
ISLAMABAD, Dec 15 (KUNA) -- Eight including four militants were killed and
more than 40 others were wounded in Peshawar airport attack episode Saturday
night in Pakistan's northern Peshawar city, said officials.
The attack took place as militants fired about five rockets at Peshawar's
International Airport (PIA), which is located adjacent to the Pakistan Air
Force (PAF) base. After the attack, fierce exchange of fire erupted between
the militants and the security forces.
A PAF spokesman in a statement to media said that the militants wanted to
target a PAF base at the Peshawar International Airport (PIA). fortunately,
the statement added, all assets of the base are safe and sound, except minor
injuries.
The statement said further that outer wall of the airport was damaged at
few places but no terrorist was able to penetrate inside. "Security forces
were fully alert and are in control of the situation", it said.
Meanwhile, Provincial Information Minister Mian Iftikhar talking to newsmen
said that about four militants including a suicide bomber and three gunmen
were killed in an exchange of fire with the security forces when they tried to
enter the airport.
The Minister said further that the militants also hit an explosive-laden
vehicle with the airport's wall, triggering a huge explosion.
Peshawar District Coordinating Officer (DCO) confirmed to media four
casualties and said that nearly 40 wounded have been shifted to nearby
hospitals.
No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. All flights to
and from Peshawar were cancelled till Sunday afternoon. (pickup previous)
amn.bs
KUNA 152224 Dec 12NNNN