Intelligence reports: Threats of more attacks loom large

Several splinter groups, especially the outlawed Lashkar-e-Islam, are believed to be active in the current development

PESHAWAR: Intelligence reports suggest militant groups have planned to target more schools in the provincial capital in assaults similar to the one on Army Public School (APS). An official requesting anonymity told The Express Tribune intelligence agencies have intercepted communication between militant groups which suggests preparations for more attacks are under way. Several splinter groups, especially the outlawed Lashkar-e-Islam (LI), are believed to be active in the current development. “LI militants could target schools in Hayatabad,” the official said, adding law-enforcement agencies have already been informed. “Schools are soft targets for organised assaults as compared to airports or garrisons where militants could face resistance. Attacks similar to the APS incident may take place in schools across the province, especially in Peshawar,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 20^th, 2015.