A roadside bomb exploded in the Shakardara area of Matta, Swat, on Tuesday, targeting the vehicle of Awami National Party (ANP) leader Mumtaz Ali Khan. The explosion caused damage to the vehicle but fortunately resulted in no injuries.
According to police reports, the roadside bomb detonated close to Khan’s car when he was traveling to attend a funeral. The explosive device had been planted roughly 300 feet from his residence. The powerful blast created panic in the area, but Khan escaped unharmed.
Mumtaz Ali Khan, a former ANP candidate from constituency PK-9, was reportedly the intended target of the attack. Security officials and bomb disposal teams reached the site soon after the incident. A heavy police contingent cordoned off the area, collected evidence, and launched an investigation to identify those behind the explosion.
Local sources said the roadside bomb was of an improvised nature, indicating it may have been remotely detonated. No group has claimed responsibility so far. Authorities are exploring possible links to previous attacks targeting political figures in the region.
The blast has raised concerns about the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially as the provincial government recently organized a peace jirga to promote stability and reduce violence. The incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining order in areas previously affected by militancy.
Police officials have increased patrols in Swat and surrounding districts following the explosion. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional security has been deployed around political leaders and key locations to prevent further incidents.
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