BANNU: A suicide car bomb attack at the Domel Police Station in Bannu killed at least five civilians, while 13 others were injured, including one policeman.
Among the deceased are a husband, wife, daughter, and son from the same family.
The explosion occurred when an explosives-laden vehicle rammed into the rear side of the police station, triggering a massive blast followed by an exchange of gunfire.
The intensity of the explosion was so powerful that it was heard miles away.
According to initial reports, the blast completely destroyed the sentry post of the police station, while a large portion of the building was reduced to rubble.
The explosion also caused severe damage to nearby residential areas, with multiple houses collapsing and several people trapped under the debris.
According to Rescue 1122, the injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals, where some are reported to be in critical condition.
District Emergency Officer Bakhtullah Wazir confirmed that five people were martyred and 13 injured were shifted to hospitals, including one police officer.
He added that search and rescue operations are ongoing and will continue until the area is fully cleared.
Following the incident, Rescue 1122 teams reached the site promptly; however, continuous rainfall created difficulties in relief operations.
After the firing stopped, rescue personnel initiated a full-scale operation to remove debris and recover those trapped.
Meanwhile, announcements were made in local mosques appealing to the public for blood donations and assistance, while residents actively participated in rescue efforts.
Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation, while further details regarding casualties and damage are being collected.
