Chaman border closed after blast

The death toll from Thursday's deadly explosion near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Chaman rose to six, as one more injured succumbed to his wounds, medics at the Chaman Civil Hospital confirmed on Friday, saying that three others remained under treatment.

The explosion occurred near a taxi stand in refugee camp area close to the border that is frequented by travellers and locals. Police sources described the explosion "a suicide blast" that claimed lives of at least five persons.

Initial reports stated that four people had died, but two of the injured succumbed to their wounds while being shifted to the hospital, the officials said, adding that movement across the border had been halted as investigation into the explosion continued.

The border closure, along with the suspension of the internet services in the town and adjoining areas has left hundreds of Afghan families stranded in scorching heat. Long queues of vehicles have been formed on both sides.

Security has been tightened at the Chaman border in the aftermath of the bombing, with security personnel maintaining high vigilance.