In a tragic incident that shook the region of Bajaur, a remote-controlled bomb blast claimed the lives of five individuals, including Assistant Commissioner Nawagai Faisal Ismail, on Wednesday. The explosion took place near Mela Ground in the Phatak Mela area of Tehsil Khar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Deputy Commissioner Shahid Ali Khan confirmed the blast targeted a government vehicle carrying administrative and police officials. The attack also martyred Tehsildar Abdul Wakeel, two police officers, and a passerby. At least eleven others, including five policemen, were injured and are currently receiving treatment at nearby medical facilities.
No group has taken responsibility for the attack, but initial investigations indicate the involvement of the banned militant outfit Khwarij, according to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General Zulfiqar Hameed. “Initial intelligence suggests the Khwarij targeted the vehicle deliberately,” he said, adding that special forensic and counter-terrorism teams have been dispatched to the site.
Strong Condemnations from Leadership
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur condemned the attack, stating: “Such cowardly acts cannot deter our determination to eliminate terrorism. The state stands united with its martyrs.” He has ordered a comprehensive inquiry and pledged to intensify intelligence-based operations across the province.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the assistant commissioner and others, terming terrorists as enemies of humanity. “These attacks will not hinder our mission to root out terrorism,” the President asserted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued similar sentiments, directing the provision of top-tier medical care for the injured. “The blood of our martyrs will not go in vain,” he declared.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, pointing fingers at foreign influence, said: “This attack, backed by Fitna-e-Hindustan, is a desperate attempt to destabilize our peace. We will not bow.”
Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq also expressed his condolences, assuring the victims’ families of the nation’s full support.
Funeral and Public Mourning
The funeral prayers for the martyrs were held at Police Lines in Bajaur, attended by senior civil and police officials, local leaders, and grieving families. The public turned out in large numbers to pay their respects, turning the ceremony into a solemn display of unity and resistance against terrorism.
