15 killed after explosives-laden vehicle rams gate of Old Police Lines in Pakistan
At least 15 people were killed, and several others were injured after a powerful explosion rocked the area near the Old Police Lines in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during Friday prayers, according to police and hospital authorities.
Police said a vehicle loaded with explosives reportedly rammed into the gate of the Old Police Lines, triggering a blast followed by gunfire. The explosion created a crater outside a mosque, damaged its exterior and caused a wall to collapse.
Kohatβs District Headquarters Hospital received 25 injured people, hospital authorities said. An emergency was declared at the facility, with police personnel also among those reported injured.
Rescue 1122 teams rushed to the scene and began evacuating the injured to hospital.
Police and security forces cordoned off the Old Police Lines as search and clearance operations continued. The Kohat-Hangu Road was reportedly closed to traffic, while additional security personnel were deployed around the area.
Nearby buildings were also reportedly damaged in the explosion.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the explosion and the identity of those responsible. Reports of gunfire were also heard following the blast.
