PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) — An anti-Taliban mayor has been killed in Northwest Pakistan where a suicide bomber hit a crowded market killing the official and 11 others.
Police say the mayor, who had once supported the Taliban, was the apparent target of the attack Sunday about 10 miles south of the main northwest city of Peshawar. The market was crowded with shoppers and goats being sold to celebrate an upcoming Muslim festival.
Police say the mayor, Abdul Malik, who was initially reported to have survived, died in the attack. Malik had formed a local militia to help fight the militants.
Police say a young girl is among the dead and dozens were wounded, including some in critical condition.
Militants have struck numerous times in Pakistan in recent weeks, killing more than 300 civilians and soldiers in retaliation for a government offensive in South Waziristan.
To add a comment, please register or login.