LOWER SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: At least three people, including prominent tribal elder and chief of the Ahmadzai Wazir tribe Malik Tariq Wazir, were killed while four others sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast that struck the busy Rustam Bazaar area of Wana on Monday morning, officials said.
Regarded as an influential tribal figure in the Lower South Waziristan district, Tariq Wazir played a significant role in resolving tribal disputes and participating in jirgas aimed at maintaining peace in the region.
A vehicle with the tribal elder on board was passing through the market when the explosion occurred near Gulshan Plaza, according to District Police Officer Mohammad Tahir Shah Wazir.
The blast resulted in the death of three individuals on the spot, while four others were wounded, the official said.
The explosion created panic and fear across the market, forcing local traders and shopkeepers to temporarily shut down businesses, while rescue workers shifted the bodies and injured persons to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Wana.
According to a police report, the deceased were identified as Tariq Wazir, Sarfraz Khan and Abdul Jabbar. Saeed Anwar, Umar, Rashid Khan, and Sabir sustained injuries. Two of the injured were in critical condition and being provided emergency medical care, Hospital MS Dr Jan Mohammad said.
Initial investigation revealed the IED was planted during the night and detonated in the morning. Soon after the blast, police personnel cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to trace those involved in the attack.
It is pertinent to mention that Tariq was abducted by armed men in December 2024 and later released with the efforts by tribal elders and local mediators.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi took notice of the blast and sought a report from the police.
Expressing deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives, he extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families. He also prayed for speedy recovery of the injured.
Former Jamaat-i-Islami senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan also condemned the incident, calling on the government and security agencies to “fulfil their constitutional responsibility” and restore peace in the tribal districts.
Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2026
