Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S) chief Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani was laid to rest on Saturday after falling victim to a suicide attack at Darul Uloom Haqqania in Akora Khattak. The tragic incident occurred on Friday, shortly after prayers, leaving at least seven others dead and 18 injured.
Funeral Attended by Prominent Figures
The funeral was attended by a large number of scholars, students, and political figures, including former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Ghulam Ali, former Jamaat-e-Islami chief Sirajul Haq, and an Afghan diplomat. Maulana Hamid was buried next to his father, Maulana Sami-ul-Haq Haqqani, a respected religious leader and politician.
Seminary Security and Attack Details
The seminary houses around 4,000 students who receive free education, clothing, and food. The explosion caused widespread damage and panic.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General Police Zulfiqar Hameed confirmed that Maulana Hamid was the intended target and died while receiving emergency medical care. Authorities are now analyzing CCTV footage and other evidence to trace those responsible.
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Investigation and Possible Suspects
The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has registered a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act based on a complaint from Maulana Hamid’s son, Abdul Haq Sani.
Authorities have sent the suicide bomber’s remains to the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) for identification. The police have also announced a Rs500,000 reward for any information leading to the attacker’s identity.
Motive Behind the Attack
Sources suggest that Maulana Hamid’s stance on women’s education, which he deemed not un-Islamic, may have made him a target. Reports indicate he had received threats in the past. Officials stress that groups like TTP and its facilitators have no religious connection and continue to spread violence.
Authorities Vow to Bring Perpetrators to Justice
The attack has drawn strong condemnation from national leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
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