Car bomb at bus station kills 12 in northwestern Pakistan

Car bomb at bus station kills 12 in northwestern Pakistan

2012-02-24 11:18:50 GMT+7 (ICT)

PESHAWAR (BNO NEWS) -- A car bomb ripped through a bus station in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar on Thursday, killing 12 people and injuring dozens, officials said.

The bombing took place in the outskirts of provincial capital Peshawar near Kohat bus stand. At least 12 people, including two children, were killed and about 30 others sustained injuries, according to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).

The deceased and injured were shifted to the local Lady Reading Hospital. Police said a rescue operation was underway.

According to the bomb disposal squad, about 45 kilograms (99 pounds) of high explosives were used in the car parked near the bus stand. The powerful explosion destroyed more than 15 nearby vehicles.

Police had cordoned off the area and started search operation. Two suspects were also arrested from the site.

Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani strongly condemned the bomb blast. He said those responsible for the attack would not be spared and directed the concerned authorities to ensure best medical treatment for the injured.

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