South Waziristan, Pakistan – DZWatch has gained access to Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan, Pakistan, following a brazen attack on the institution earlier this week. Our team witnessed firsthand the extensive damage inflicted upon the college’s main entrance and administrative buildings. Security forces maintain a heavy presence as they continue to secure the area.
Images from the scene reveal the sheer force of the explosion that targeted the college entrance. The blast’s impact reverberated throughout the surrounding structures, causing significant structural damage. Pakistani security personnel are visible throughout the college grounds.
During a media visit, Pakistani military officials confirmed that two civilians and three soldiers were killed during the assault. The officials added that the rapid response of the security forces prevented further casualties.
Cadet College Wana, while operating under the supervision of the military, is open to all Pakistani citizens, not exclusively the children of military personnel. It provides military science education to young Pakistanis.
According to a statement from the Pakistani military, the attack was carried out by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban. The attackers initially attempted to breach the college perimeter through multiple points. After being detected and engaged by security forces, one attacker detonated a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) at the main gate, causing its collapse and widespread damage to nearby infrastructure.
The military claims that two attackers were killed in the initial exchange of fire. Three remaining attackers then barricaded themselves inside the college’s administrative building. Security forces then initiated a cordon and began a meticulous clearing operation.
Military sources also reported that the students were participating in a sporting event on a field far from the main buildings, limiting the attackers’ ability to reach them. The investigation into the attack is ongoing.
