ISLAMABAD: At least two people, including a policeman, were killed and 26 others injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near a police van in the crowded Lower Wana Bazaar of South Waziristan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Saturday evening.
The blast targeted security personnel in a busy marketplace, but the powerful explosion also struck nearby civilians, highlighting the persistent threat of terrorism in the region.
Police officials confirmed that the IED was planted specifically to hit the passing police vehicle in Lower Wana Bazaar.
Initial investigations indicate the device was remotely detonated, causing widespread damage to shops and structures in the area.
The incident occurred around evening hours when the market was bustling with traders and residents.
Casualties included one policeman killed on the spot and another person, with many of the 26 injured being civilians caught in the crossfire.
Rescue teams and security forces quickly responded, cordoning off the site and shifting the wounded to nearby hospitals.
Medical sources reported that several injured individuals remain in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll could increase.
The explosion created panic, forcing people to flee as smoke and debris filled the air.
Authorities launched a search operation immediately after the blast to collect evidence and trace the perpetrators.
South Waziristan, part of the merged tribal districts, has witnessed a resurgence of militant activities in recent years.
Data from security reports show frequent IED attacks targeting law enforcement in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in southern districts.
In 2025 alone, the province recorded hundreds of terrorism-related incidents, with IEDs commonly used against police and security convoys.
The latest blast aligns with a pattern of attacks aimed at undermining stability in the former tribal areas.
Experts note that militants often exploit crowded public spaces to maximize impact and sow fear among the population.
Lower Wana Bazaar, a commercial hub, has been hit multiple times in the past, including similar IED incidents targeting vehicles.
Security analysts point to cross-border elements as a factor, with some attacks linked to groups operating from Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s military and police continue large-scale operations to counter such threats under initiatives like Azm-e-Istehkam.
The government has repeatedly condemned such acts as attempts to disrupt peace and development efforts in the region.
Local residents expressed outrage over the attack on civilians, calling for enhanced security measures in markets and public areas.
Traders in Wana Bazaar reported significant losses due to damaged shops and disrupted business.
The incident has heightened tensions in an area already grappling with economic challenges post-merger.
Provincial authorities assured that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Police officials emphasized that no group has claimed responsibility yet, but probes are focusing on known militant networks.
This attack comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilize Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following years of militancy.
Casualty figures from similar past blasts in South Waziristan often rise as injured succumb to wounds.
Hospitals in Wana and nearby districts are on high alert to handle potential influx of more patients.
Community leaders urged unity against terrorism, stressing that such violence affects innocent lives indiscriminately.
The blast underscores the need for sustained intelligence-based operations to prevent future incidents.
Security forces have intensified patrols in vulnerable areas following the explosion.
Officials vowed to bring the culprits to justice and prevent recurrence in crowded locations.
The people of South Waziristan continue to bear the brunt of lingering militancy despite military successes.
Peace and normalcy remain elusive in parts of the district, affecting daily life and commerce.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenge posed by IED warfare in the northwest.
Authorities called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
The focus now shifts to recovery for the injured and rebuilding confidence in the affected community.