Web Desk: A powerful explosion in the Serai Naurang area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat district on Tuesday left at least nine people dead, including two traffic police officials, while 33 others sustained injuries, according to local authorities.
Police officials initially confirmed the deaths of seven people and reported more than 20 injuries. The deceased traffic policemen were identified as Adil Jan and Rahatullah. Later, district administration officials revised the death toll to nine after further assessments at the scene and local hospitals.
Authorities said preliminary investigations suggested that explosives had been planted inside a rickshaw. The blast caused severe damage to nearby shops and several three-wheelers, while videos shared on social media showed chaos and destruction in the busy market area.
Rescue teams and ambulances rushed to the site shortly after the explosion, shifting the injured to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Sarai Naurang. Hospital officials confirmed that several critically wounded victims were later referred to hospitals in Bannu and Peshawar for advanced treatment.
A heavy police contingent sealed off the area following the incident, while investigators collected evidence from the blast site to determine the nature and origin of the attack.
Deputy Commissioner Hameedullah Khan visited the hospital to review medical arrangements and directed health authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and ordered an inquiry into the incident. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and praised the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also sought a detailed report from police authorities and assured support for the families of the victims. He instructed officials to provide quality medical care to those injured in the explosion.
The blast comes days after a deadly suicide attack on the Fateh Khel police post in Bannu, where at least 15 police personnel lost their lives. Pakistani authorities have recently intensified concerns over militant activities in the region following investigations linking cross-border elements to recent attacks.
