8 killed, 25 injured as PAF van comes under attack in Peshawar

A passenger bus was also damaged in the blast.

PESHAWAR: At least eight people were killed while 25 sustained injuries when explosive material planted in a car blew up near Scheme Chowk on Kohat Road, Peshawar, Express News reported on Wednesday.

Lady Reading Hospital's Medical Superintendent Dr Mukhtiar Khan confirmed the death toll. 

According to initial reports, a Pakistan Air Force van was targeted in the attack, while a passenger bus - on its way to DI Khan - was also damaged. Three officials were travelling in the PAF van.

The injured, including four children and a woman, were shifted to the Lady Reading Hospital. Four of the injured are in a critical condition.

Emergency has been declared at Lady Reading Hospital.

The bomb disposal squad reached the area and collected evidence. According to initial investigations, it was a home-made remote-controlled bomb and around 30kg to 40kg of explosive material was used.

The blast has severely damaged the nearby shops.

Soon after the attack, the security officials cordoned off the area and started a search operation.

TTP Dara Adamkhel spokesperson Muhammad Afridi called The Express Tribune from an unknown location and claimed responsibility for the attack. “This was to avenge the death of Maulana Naseeb Gul,” he said.

“Our target was the airforce vehicle and we will continue to do so in the future,” he added.