The assailants, described as Khawarij (militant extremists) by the Central Police Office, rammed an explosives-laden truck into the school’s main gate, triggering a massive blast, Dunya News reported. Heavily armed attackers wearing multiple uniforms then stormed the facility, prompting a fierce gun battle with police personnel.

Officials said police officers fought back with “great bravery,” engaging the militants in an extended exchange of fire as the attackers hurled grenades inside the compound.

Seven officers were killed in the fighting, while several others sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities said around 200 trainee officers and staff members were safely evacuated from the premises.

Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Zulfiqar Hameed told Pakistani media that the area had been cleared and that a search and clean-up operation was underway.