Peshawar: At least seven people including four policemen were killed and around 18 others injured in a suicide blast near a peace rally at the main gate of Kabal Police Station in Swat district on Sunday.
According to the District Police Officer (DPO) Swat, Umar Gandapur, the attacker attempted to enter the police station and police lines compound, however police personnel stopped him at the main gate where he detonated his explosive laden jacket.
Regional Police Officer (RPO) Malakand Syed Fida Hassan Shah said that timely action by police averted a much larger tragedy, as casualties could have been significantly higher if the attacker had gained access to the compound. The police station is located close to police lines and other sensitive government buildings.
He said the blast occurred when a local youth protest was being held in the area. However, he clarified that the protest site was located some distance away from the explosion.
According to the DIG Malakand, the victims include four police officials and three civilians, including one child.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Ahmad Faizi said emergency teams and ambulances were dispatched immediately after receiving reports of the blast. The injured including policemen were shifted to Kabal Hospital and Saidu Sharif Hospital, while rescue and relief operations continued.
Security forces and police have cordoned off the area, collected evidence and launched an investigation into the incident.