A suicide attack targeting a security forces’ post near Azam Warsak Bazaar in South Waziristan was foiled on Monday evening, officials confirmed.
A civilian was martyred and 15 others injured after a powerful explosion shook the area.
Security sources said the attacker attempted to strike an army post using an explosives-laden coach.
However, swift response by Pakistan Army personnel stopped the vehicle before it could reach the target, causing it to detonate at a distance.
Officials said this timely action prevented what could have been a much larger tragedy.
Police reported that the blast caused extensive destruction in the surrounding area.
A religious seminary, petrol pump, several shops, and nearby houses were damaged, with some roofs partially collapsing due to the impact.
The explosion was so powerful that panic spread across the locality, with residents rushing out of their homes in fear.
Civilian martyred, 15 injured
Authorities confirmed that one civilian lost his life in the blast, while 15 others sustained injuries.
All injured individuals were immediately shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Wana for treatment.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Jan Mohammad said an emergency had been declared at the hospital to handle the influx of casualties.
Security officials said the attacker and explosive vehicle were engaged away from the post, which helped reduce casualties significantly.
Following the incident, the area was cordoned off and a search operation was launched to clear any further threats.
Rising militancy in South Waziristan
The attack comes amid a continued surge in militant activity in South Waziristan and surrounding areas.
Residents have reported increasing incidents of target killings, kidnappings for ransom, bombings, and attacks on security checkpoints.
According to security reports, terrorism-related violence has increased significantly in recent years.
Reports from security think tanks highlight a sharp rise in both attacks and fatalities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The province has seen intensified counter-terrorism operations as security forces respond to the renewed threat.
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