PESHAWAR (SW): A powerful bomb, detonated by a timing mechanism, ripped through a bus carrying government employees in Peshawar, Pakistan on Wednesday, killing at least 15 people and causing injuries to 25.
The blast that took place near Peshawar's Sunehri Masjid targeted a Civil Secretariat bus which was carrying government employees from Mardan to the provincial capital Peshawar.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Cantonment Muhammad Kashif said the bomb was planted in the rear portion of the bus. "Fifteen people were killed and 25 others were severely injured," added the police officer.
Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Peshawar Mubarak Zeb said the bus left for Peshawar from Malakand, picking up government employees on its route. The bus, which is parked at a petrol pump during the night, leaves for duty after morning prayers. Levis personnel provide security in the area, the CCPO said.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Information Adviser Mushtaq Ghani told DawnNews Chief Minister Pervaiz Khattak condemned the blast and issued directives to provide proper medical care to the wounded. He said the employees were travelling in a privately-operated bus and that the government cannot ensure security of private vehicles. It was the responsibility of the contractor, Ghani said, adding that usually checks are carried out before the bus leaves its station.
This is not the first time that a civil secretariat bus has been targeted in Peshawar. Similar attacks in 2012 and 2013 killed at least 38 people.
ENDS
