Punjab Newsline | Islamabad
At least 15 people were killed and more than 50 others injured after a powerful explosion near a mosque inside the police lines in Kohat district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday.
According to Geo News, the blast took place near the mosque located within the police lines premises. Local media reports have described the incident as a suspected suicide or fidayeen attack. Firing was also reportedly heard outside the mosque following the explosion.
According to local reports, a vehicle loaded with explosives rammed into the gate of the mosque, triggering a massive explosion. The blast created a crater outside the mosque and caused significant damage to the building. One of the walls also collapsed.
Police said several police personnel were among those injured in the attack.
Tahir Ali Shah, Medical Superintendent of the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital, said 15 bodies had been brought to the hospital following the blast. More than 50 injured people were also admitted for treatment.
Following the explosion, additional police contingents were deployed inside the police lines as security forces carried out operations in the area.
No militant organisation has so far claimed responsibility for the attack.
