Web DeskPublished: 1 June 2023 at 12:01 | Updated: 1 June 2023 at 12:01
Deadly Explosion in Punjab's Kot Addu Claims Six Lives, Investigation Underway
At least six people were tragically killed and two others injured in a devastating explosion that occurred in a house located in Daira Din Panah, a town in Punjab's Kot Addu district. The incident, which took place approximately 80 kilometers away from Muzaffargarh, sent shockwaves through the community, leaving authorities and locals perplexed.
According to the local police, the house where the explosion transpired was owned by an individual employed at a nearby junkyard. Reports indicate that the explosion occurred while waste materials and scrap were being sorted within the premises. As news of the incident spread, law enforcement agencies and security teams promptly arrived at the scene to assess the situation and provide assistance.
While the exact nature of the explosion remains unknown, police sources have confirmed that investigations are ongoing. The district police officer, Hasnain Haider, mentioned the involvement of a bomb disposal squad and other security agencies in determining the cause behind this tragic incident.
The immediate aftermath of the explosion witnessed a devastating loss of life. Among the deceased were two women, a girl, and a one-and-a-half-year-old child who succumbed to their injuries at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Kot Addu, where the injured were rushed for medical treatment. Heartbreakingly, all of the victims belonged to the same family.
The deceased individuals have been identified as Haseena Mai (40), Bilal (38), Iqbal (30), Shano Mai (28), and four-year-old Sadia Bibi. Three other individuals were injured and received immediate medical attention.
The emergency response team, Rescue 1122, received an urgent call at 8:44 am reporting the explosion and subsequent casualties. Three ambulances were dispatched to the site, and the police were informed promptly. Eyewitnesses at the scene informed the rescue team that the explosion was caused by an unknown object within a room, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries.
Rescue operations are currently underway, with the rescue team diligently working to ensure the safety of any potential survivors. It is important to note that at this stage, it would be premature to ascertain the exact nature of the explosion.
Taking serious note of the incident, Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Anwar has requested a detailed report from the regional police officer in Dera Ghazi Khan. Additionally, the Muzaffargarh district police officer has been directed to conduct a thorough investigation from all possible angles to determine the cause of the explosion and prevent future incidents.
The community of Kot Addu is grappling with grief and shock in the wake of this tragic event, as authorities continue their efforts to provide support to the affected families and uncover the truth behind this devastating explosion.