Police prevented an assassination attempt on ANP Chief Asfandyar Wali Khan today in Charsadda, NWFP.

A suicide bomber was shot in the head as he tried to make his way into a gathering (hujra) at Wali Bagh led by Khan.

The bomber released the trigger upon his death, setting off the blast. At least five persons were killed.

Pakistan’s counterterrorism capabilities are improving.

Its first line of defense, local policemen and security guards, are displaying great bravery and diligence — saving the lives of others and sacrificing their own in the process.