At least seven people were killed and three others injured in twin roadside explosions in Pakistan’s troubled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday. The second blast occurred merely moments after the first, striking when people had rushed to the spot to rescue the injured.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks so far. The first explosion took place in the Marka Bera area of Bannu district when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along a roadside detonated, hitting a passenger van travelling from Hathi Khel village to Bannu city. Bannu District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi said five people died on the spot in the blast. The van was completely damaged after the explosion.

A second blast occurred shortly afterwards at the same location, targeting people involved in rescue efforts. Two more people were killed in the explosion, while a vehicle was also damaged. The injured and bodies of victims were shifted to a nearby hospital. Police have launched an investigation, and security personnel have cordoned off the area to collect evidence from the blast site.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the incident and directed police to submit a detailed report. He ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosions. Calling the incident “highly tragic” and “heartbreaking,” the chief minister expressed condolences to bereaved families and assured them of the provincial government’s support. He also directed authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi also condemned the twin blasts. Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack and expressed sorrow over the loss of civilian lives. He conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

According to a statement issued by the President’s House, President Zardari warned terrorists as well as those who provide them safe havens, financial support, and other resources. The twin blasts underscore ongoing security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a region that has witnessed multiple insurgent attacks over the years.

Further details on the identity of the attackers and the exact type of IED used are awaited. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts to trace the perpetrators.

A photo of the completely damaged van is going viral on social media, but it has not been confirmed yet. Local residents described the scene as chaotic, with dust and debris covering the roadside after the first blast, followed quickly by the second explosion that compounded the tragedy.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation across Pakistan, with political leaders and civil society groups calling for stronger security measures in the region. Security forces have increased patrols in Marka Bera and surrounding areas as part of the immediate response.