By Israr Ahmad Orakzai
HANGU: A 10 kilogram anti-tank bomb planted along a roadside in the Kheshari area of Hangu district was successfully defused in a timely operation by law enforcement agencies, officials said on Sunday, averting what could have been a major incident.
According to police, the explosive device was discovered in the area, prompting an immediate response from the bomb disposal unit and local police. The swift action ensured that the device was neutralised before it could cause harm to civilians or nearby infrastructure.
The District Police Officer of Hangu said coordinated efforts between the bomb disposal squad and police teams led to the safe refusal of the device. He added that the timely intervention prevented a potential tragedy and highlighted the continued threat posed by improvised explosive devices in the region.
Security officials confirmed that the area was quickly cordoned off after the discovery of the bomb to ensure public safety during the operation. Residents were moved to safe distances while bomb disposal experts worked carefully to disarm the explosive.
Following the incident, police launched an investigation to determine who had planted the device and its intended target. Officials said all possible angles were being examined, including the involvement of militant groups operating in the wider region.
The incident comes amid ongoing security challenges in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where law enforcement agencies have repeatedly conducted operations against suspected militant activity and roadside explosives. Authorities said vigilance and rapid response had helped prevent casualties in this case.
