At least 16 people have been killed and more than 50 others injured after an explosive-laden vehicle was used in a deadly attack that was followed by a gun battle with police.
According to officials, the attack began when a vehicle packed with explosives was driven into the entrance of a police facility. The blast caused major damage, while armed attackers accompanying the vehicle opened fire, triggering an exchange of gunfire with security forces.
Among those killed were five police officers, according to the provincial police chief. More than 50 people were injured, with several reportedly in critical condition as hospitals treated the large number of casualties.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene after the explosion as people were pulled from damaged areas and taken to nearby hospitals. Images and videos from the aftermath showed significant structural damage and emergency crews working through the debris.
Police said the assault involved more than one attacker. One attacker wearing an explosives-laden vest was killed, while a gun battle continued between security forces and the remaining attackers. Authorities later reported that several militants had been killed during operations to clear the area.
No group had immediately claimed responsibility in the Reuters report, although later local reports attributed a claim to an organization that has not been independently verified. Authorities continue to investigate the attack and its full circumstances.