Pakistan: 5 Killed, Over 20 Injured In Dera Ismail Khan Blast

Following the explosion in Tank Adda in Ponda Bazar of DI Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emergency measures were put in place in hospitals nearby.

Following the explosion in Tank Adda in Ponda Bazar of DI Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emergency measures were put in place in hospitals nearby.

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At least five people were killed and over 20 sustained injuries in a blast that occurred in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Pakistan on Friday, news agency ANI reported, citing Samaa TV. Following the explosion in Tank Adda in Ponda Bazar of DI Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emergency measures were put in place in hospitals nearby.

As per initial media reports, the explosive device was planted on a motorcycle. Sounds of gunfire were reported at the site of the incident, SAMAA TV reported, citing authorities. The KP bomb disposal unit as well as law enforcement officials immediately arrived on site after the explosion.

In September, at least 52 people, including a police officer were killed and more than 50 others were injured in an explosion that rocked the Mastung district in Balochistan. This marks the second major explosion in the district within the month of September, deepening concerns over security in the region. Mastung Assistant Commissioner, Atta Ul Munim, disclosed that the explosion occurred near a mosque where a congregation had gathered to commemorate Eid Miladun Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Geo TV reported.

Dawn reported District Health Officer (DHO) Abdul Rasheed Shahi as confirming that at least 52 people died in the blast. The explosion, believed to be a suicide blast by law enforcement authorities, struck in close proximity to the Madina Mosque, just as people were preparing to participate in a religious procession.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nawaz Gashkori was among the casualties, Geo TV's report cited the district administration as informing.

Balochistan Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Khalique Shaikh said DSP Mastung died in an attempt to stop the suicide bomber. He stated that three more police officials were injured in the suicide blast, and details about casualties will be released soon, the report stated.