SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: At least three people, including a prominent tribal elder, were killed and four others injured in a remote-controlled explosion near Rustam Bazaar in Wana, located in Lower South Waziristan, officials confirmed on Monday.
According to District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Tahir, the blast targeted a vehicle carrying the tribal leader of the Ahmadzai Wazir tribe. The powerful explosion occurred in a busy area near the market, causing panic among residents and traders in the vicinity.
Police officials said the deceased included the head of the Ahmadzai Wazir tribe, though authorities have not yet released the complete identities of all victims. The injured individuals were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where some are reportedly in critical condition.
The explosion caused significant fear and confusion in the area, prompting security personnel and rescue teams to rush to the scene shortly after the incident. Law enforcement agencies cordoned off the affected location and launched an investigation to determine the nature of the attack and identify those responsible.
According to preliminary reports, the explosive device was detonated remotely as the tribal elder’s vehicle passed through the area. Investigators are collecting evidence from the scene while bomb disposal experts are examining the blast site.
Security forces and police have intensified patrols in Wana and surrounding areas following the attack. Authorities fear the incident could be linked to ongoing militant activity in the tribal districts, where security forces have been conducting operations against extremist elements.
South Waziristan has witnessed several security incidents in recent months despite continued counterterrorism efforts by Pakistani security forces. Tribal elders and community leaders have frequently played an important role in maintaining peace and supporting government efforts against militancy in the region.
The killing of a tribal leader is being viewed as a serious development because tribal elders hold significant influence in local dispute resolution, community leadership, and coordination with state institutions.
Officials stated that an investigation is underway and that all possible angles are being examined, including the involvement of militant groups operating in the area. No organization has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.
Local residents expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation and urged authorities to take stronger measures to ensure peace and protect civilians from violence.
The incident comes amid continued security challenges in the former tribal regions, where law enforcement agencies and military forces remain engaged in operations against terrorism and armed groups.
