Awami National Party (ANP) leader Mumtaz Ali Khan narrowly survived an assassination attempt on Wednesday when a remote-controlled bomb detonated near his vehicle in the Shakardara area of Tehsil Matta. The incident occurred as Khan’s convoy was passing through the region, according to District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Umar.
Authorities confirmed that Khan remained unhurt in the blast, though his vehicle sustained significant damage. “The ANP leader survived the blast,” DPO Umar stated, noting that no other casualties were reported from the incident. Following the explosion, police immediately cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to identify those responsible for the attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the remote-controlled bomb had been planted in the wall of a dilapidated building, positioned strategically to target passing vehicles. Bomb disposal and forensic teams were dispatched to the site to collect evidence and determine the type and origin of the explosive device.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the attack, but the incident has prompted an increase in security measures across Matta and surrounding areas. Police are actively investigating the attack, reviewing local intelligence, and questioning potential suspects to prevent any follow-up incidents.
The attack on Mumtaz Ali Khan comes amid a period of heightened security concerns in the region, where political leaders and public figures have occasionally been targeted. The swift response of law enforcement and the protective measures in place around Khan’s convoy are credited with preventing potential injuries.
Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that may assist in the ongoing investigation. The ANP leader’s survival underscores the importance of coordinated security efforts for politicians traveling in volatile areas.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that security protocols are maintained while forensic teams gather crucial evidence to identify and apprehend the perpetrators behind this attempted assassination.
The investigation remains ongoing, with local and regional law enforcement agencies working together to ensure the safety of public figures in the area and to bring those responsible to justice.
