World Vision is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic attack on the Plan International staff and office in Mansehra, Pakistan yesterday.

Our prayers are with the families who lost loved ones, and with all the other staff members in Plan International. So far four people have been reported dead and nine injured, while huge damage was caused to office buildings and vehicles. The violent action is disrupting the work of an INGO with a deep commitment for Pakistani children and local communities. World Vision regrets that those children and families are affected as well.

At present, World Vision Pakistan continues its work in all areas, with the necessary precautions. Movement within Mansehra town is restricted, trips from Islamabad to field are halted for the time being. Staff is to remain vigilant, and will not stay in their offices unnecessarily, to avoid making them easy targets.

Together with the government the NGO community is working on gathering further information on the motive behind the attack and who was behind it. World Vision Pakistan's Crisis Management Team is meeting regularly to discuss appropriate measures and next steps. World Vision Pakistan strongly hopes that its field activities will not be hampered, so it can continue to work with communities in its area integrated programmes.