Two policemen were killed and several others injured when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a police checkpost in Bhakkar district, Punjab, on Tuesday evening, officials said. The attack took place near the Dajal inter-provincial checkpost during a routine search operation.

According to District Police Officer Shahzad Rafiq, the attacker approached security personnel stationed at the checkpost and detonated his explosive device. Constables Muhammad Faheem and Muhammad Shehbaz lost their lives in the blast. Another police officer, Arshad, sustained injuries. Three civilians who were present in the area were also wounded.

The injured were shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital for medical treatment. Authorities cordoned off the area following the explosion and launched an investigation into the incident.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the policemen and extended condolences to their families. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also denounced the incident, paid tribute to the fallen officers, and directed that the injured receive the best possible medical care.

The attack in Bhakkar occurred amid ongoing security challenges, as another militant assault in Kohat district on the same day resulted in additional casualties among law enforcement personnel.