PESHAWAR – A Policeman was martyred and two others were injured when stored explosives detonated at a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Police Station in the provincial capital on Sunday.
According to the preliminary assessment, the blast occurred in the police station’s store (Maal Khana), where old explosive materials had been placed.
CCPO Peshawar Mian Saeed confirmed the martyrdom of one CTD officer and injuries to two others. He stated that, apparently, the explosion occurred due to the detonation of old explosives kept in the Maal Khana.
After the explosion, the fire erupted and spread to other sections of the depot, which caused secondary explosions.
The CCPO stated that the blast caused the collapse of a portion of the building, adding that all detainees have been safely evacuated from the lock-up. He said that the explosion was apparently not an act of terrorism.
Soon after the blast, the Police cordoned off the area, while the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU), Rescue 1122, and fire brigade teams launched operations to clear the site and extinguish the fire.
The special investigation unit, led by SSP CTD, was on the site gathering evidence. Teams from the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU) and CTD were also present, assisting in collecting materials from the debris.
After recording statements of personnel who were inside the station at the time of the blast, the Police are examining CCTV footage from nearby areas to determine the sequence of events.
