A deadly suicide blast struck Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday. The explosion killed at least 16 people and injured over 50 others.
The incident occurred in Kohat district’s Police Lines area around 1:30 pm. The blast happened near a mosque when people gathered for Friday prayers.
However, no terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. The explosion created panic in the area.
Police reveal details about the deadly explosion
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Chief Zulfiqar Hamid shared details about the incident. He said an explosive-filled vehicle hit the Old Police Line gate.
Afterwards, the vehicle collided with the mosque wall inside the compound. The impact triggered the powerful explosion.
According to Hamid, the deceased included 11 civilians and five police personnel. The suicide attacker also died in the blast.
Meanwhile, District Headquarters Hospital Medical Superintendent Tahir Ali Shah provided further information. He said the hospital received 15 bodies and over 50 injured people.
Following the arrival of victims, the Kohat DHQ Hospital administration declared an emergency. Police increased security deployment around the Police Lines area.
Mosque damaged as rescue teams begin operation
Local police stated that the blast occurred during Friday prayers. The explosion also created a large crater outside the mosque.
Additionally, emergency teams, ambulances and security personnel reached the location. Rescue officials reported severe damage to the mosque’s outer section.
The blast collapsed one mosque wall and damaged nearby buildings. The authorities started rescue operations at the site.
Furthermore, officials began assessing the damage and investigating the reasons behind the explosion. The administration also restricted vehicle movement on the Kohat-Hangu Road.
