By Syed Shahabuddin
SWAT: A child was killed and another injured when a hand grenade exploded while they were playing in the Golden area of Kabal Tehsil, police confirmed on Thursday. The incident highlights the lingering dangers posed by unexploded ordnance in the region.
According to Shah Dherai Police Station SHO Gohar Ali, the children discovered an old grenade near a nullah, which detonated suddenly. Rescue and police teams reached the site immediately, transferring the injured child to Kabal Hospital for treatment.
Police identified the deceased as Abubakkar Siddiq, son of Fareed Gul, and the injured as Muhammad Ayaz, son of Muhammad Bacha, both residents of Sum Diwali. The body of the deceased was taken to Kabal Hospital, while the injured child was later shifted to Saidu Teaching Hospital for further care.
This is the second such incident in recent days. In Kamalay Awesha area of Matta Tehsil, eight-year-old Abdul Hadi was killed and his five-year-old sister Madiha injured when explosive material detonated near fields. Rescue teams moved the injured girl to Matta Tehsil Headquarters Hospital.
Experts note that decades of conflict in Swat have left many explosive devices buried or scattered in open areas. They stress that clearance operations are essential to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of children and residents. Police said investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
