BANNU: At least seven people were killed and three others injured in two successive explosions in the Marka Bera area of Bannu’s Wazir sub-division on Saturday, officials said.
According to Bannu District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi, the explosions targeted two vehicles in the Phang Musa Khel area, resulting in significant casualties and damage.
Police said the first blast struck a passenger Datsun vehicle travelling towards Domel. The explosion killed five people on the spot and completely destroyed the vehicle.
As rescue efforts were underway and the injured were being transported to a nearby hospital, a second explosion occurred approximately one kilometre from the first blast site. The second blast targeted another vehicle, killing two more people and destroying the vehicle.
Authorities described the incidents as remote-controlled explosions and termed them a “cowardly act of terrorism.”
Rescue 1122 teams shifted the bodies and injured victims to Domel Rural Health Centre and Khalifa Gul Nawaz Teaching Hospital for medical treatment and identification.
Security forces and law enforcement agencies swiftly reached the area, cordoned off the blast sites and launched a search operation. Officials said evidence was being collected while a thorough sweep was underway amid concerns that additional explosive devices could still be present.
President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attacks and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the explosions, describing the loss of life as tragic. He offered prayers for the victims and wished the injured a full recovery.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq denounced the attacks, calling the targeting of innocent civilians a cowardly and shameful act. He reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and defeating extremist elements.
The latest incident underscores growing security concerns in Bannu, which has witnessed a surge in militant violence in recent months. Residents have repeatedly voiced concerns over the safety of civilians travelling through remote and mountainous parts of the district.
Security officials have launched an investigation into the twin blasts, while efforts are underway to identify those responsible.
