What Happened in Pakistan? Five Children Killed in Mortar Shell Blast

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Five children tragically lost their lives in the explosion.
- 12 others were injured, highlighting the dangers of unexploded ordinance.
- The incident occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, near a police station.
- Emergency services responded quickly to assist the victims.
- A bomb disposal unit is investigating the area for more unexploded shells.
Islamabad, Aug 2 (NationPress) - A tragic mortar shell explosion in the northwestern part of Pakistan resulted in the loss of five children’s lives and left 12 others injured on Saturday.
The devastating incident took place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa when a mortar shell detonated at approximately 9:30 am local time. Reports indicate that the explosion occurred close to the Sadar Police station in the Lakki Marwat district.
According to reports from Aaj TV, the tragedy unfolded when a group of children, while playing in the hilly terrain, stumbled upon an unexploded mortar shell.
Unaware of the danger, they brought the device home, where it detonated shortly after, leading to a catastrophic explosion.
The blast happened as the children began tampering with the shell, resulting in the unfortunate deaths and injuries.
A spokesperson for rescue services, as reported by Aaj TV, stated that emergency ambulances arrived at the scene promptly after the explosion was reported.
The 12 injured individuals were quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where they received essential medical care and assistance.
Local media has reported that most of the injured were children, including those who lost their lives.
Seventeen individuals were taken to the hospital, with five already deceased and the remaining 12 suffering severe injuries.
The hospital declared a state of emergency, calling all staff members to report for duty as soon as possible.
A bomb disposal team is currently conducting searches in the area to locate any additional unexploded mortar shells, while police have initiated an investigation into this heart-wrenching incident.
This explosion has instilled a widespread sense of fear and panic within the local community.