The death toll from a powerful suicide blast at the main gate of Kabal Police Station in Tehsil Kabal, Swat, has risen to 13, while 20 people were injured.
According to the Regional Police Officer, Malakand, the victims include 5 police personnel and 8 civilians. Police officials said that among the 20 injured are 14 police personnel and 6 civilians. All of the wounded were immediately shifted to Saidu Sharif Hospital for medical treatment. Hospital sources said that the condition of some of the injured is critical.
Police sources said the suicide bomber attempted to enter the Kabal police compound. Due to the timely action of security personnel stationed at the gate, the attacker could not get inside and detonated himself right in front of the gate.
Security forces and rescue teams reached the site immediately after the blast. The entire area has been cordoned off and a search operation has been launched. An emergency has also been declared in hospitals.
Panic and fear gripped the area following the incident, while law enforcement agencies have started investigations into the attack.
