Grenade blast kills girl, injures two children

A young girl was killed and two other children were injured when a hand grenade exploded in the Saidabad area on Pajjgi Road in Peshawar.

The victims were playing in the street outside their home when one of the children picked up the grenade, mistaking it for a toy. A powerful blast shook the neighbourhood, spreading panic among residents.

The deceased has been identified as seven-year-old Insha. The injured children are five-year-old Rehan and six-year-old Ruqaiya. One of the injured children is said to be in critical condition.

According to police, the children belonged to a man named Ajmal, who runs a scrap business in the area.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Hamid Ehsan Waraich visited the scene of the incident. A Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU) team confirmed that the explosion was caused by a hand grenade.

Police officials said they initially received information about a cylinder blast, but upon reaching the spot, they recovered evidence of a hand grenade explosion.

"Investigations are underway from all angles to determine how the hand grenade came into the possession of the children," police said. The injured children have been shifted to a hospital for treatment.

A case has been registered under the Explosive Substances Act and other relevant sections. Police have begun examining CCTV footage and collecting other evidence from the area.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the locality, with residents expressing concern over the presence of unexploded ordnance in residential areas.