A suicide blast near Kohat’s Old Police Lines during Friday prayers killed 16 people and injured more than 50, according to police and hospital officials.
WEB DESK: A suicide blast near the Kohat Police Lines during Friday prayers killed 16 people, including five police personnel, and injured more than 50 others, according to police and hospital officials.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hamid told Geo News that an explosives-laden vehicle rammed into the gate of the Old Police Lines before exploding.
Explosives-Laden Vehicle Hit Police Lines Gate
According to the KP police chief, the vehicle struck the gate and then exploded. Gunfire also broke out following the blast.
The IGP said another suicide blast occurred at the Special Branch building during an exchange of fire with the attackers. He said three militants had been killed in the exchange.
The Central Police Office said authorities were assessing the nature of the attack while the exchange of fire was continuing.
More Than 50 Injured
District Headquarters Hospital Medical Superintendent Tahir Ali Shah told Geo News that 15 bodies had initially been brought to the hospital along with more than 50 injured people.
The hospital administration later said at least 25 injured people had been brought to the facility for treatment. The differing figures reflect the developing nature of the incident and ongoing casualty assessment.
An emergency was declared at the DHQ Hospital as casualties were brought in following the explosion.
Mosque Damaged, Road Closed
Rescue officials said the blast severely damaged the outer section of the mosque and caused a wall to collapse.
Rescue operations continued at the scene, while authorities closed the Kohat-Hangu Road to traffic following the attack.
The Central Police Office said the KP IGP had sought a report from the Regional Police Officer in Kohat.
Investigation Underway
Authorities were continuing to investigate the attack and assess the full extent of the damage and casualties.
The incident occurred during Friday prayers, and the police and hospital authorities continued their response as further details emerged.
The investigation remains ongoing, and casualty figures may be revised as authorities complete the assessment.
