Seven killed in roadside blast in Bannu

At least seven people were killed and three others injured in a roadside explosion in the Marka Bera area of Bannu on Friday, according to local police officials.

District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi said the blast targeted vehicles traveling through the area, leaving multiple casualties. According to initial reports, a passenger van coming from Hathi Khel village to Bannu city was among the vehicles affected by the explosion.

The DPO stated that five of the deceased were passengers aboard the van, while two others were traveling in a separate vehicle that also came within the blast radius. The injured individuals sustained varying degrees of wounds and were immediately shifted to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

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Authorities confirmed that the bodies of the victims and the injured were transported to Khalifa Gul Nawaz Teaching Hospital, where emergency measures were taken to handle the situation.

Police officials believe the explosion was caused by explosive material planted along the roadside. Investigators and bomb disposal experts were dispatched to the site to collect evidence and determine the exact nature of the device used in the attack.

Security forces cordoned off the area soon after the incident, while a search operation was launched in nearby locations to identify those responsible. Law enforcement agencies are examining all possible aspects of the attack and have begun a formal investigation.

The blast has raised concerns about security in the region, where authorities have been working to maintain law and order amid periodic incidents of violence. Officials have assured the public that those behind the attack will be traced and brought to justice.

Further details regarding the identities of the victims and the motive behind the explosion are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies during the inquiry.