SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Unidentified armed men blew up a small bridge on Azam Warsak Road in Birmal tehsil of Lower South Waziristan district, using a remote-controlled improvised explosive device on Friday.

DSP Birmal Asghar Ali Shah said the device was planted beneath the bridge and detonated remotely, resulting in the destruction of the structure. Fortunately, no casualties were reported; however, the incident has caused serious disruptions to local travel and transportation.

Police launched an investigation, and security personnel cordoned off the area shortly after the explosion. Sources suggest that the attack may be linked to a similar IED blast in Wana’s Rustam Bazaar a day earlier, which claimed two lives and left 20 others injured, including two police personnel.

Both the incidents left the district in a state of fear and tension. Security forces remain on high alert, while residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities.

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2025