Former Senator Hidayat Ullah Killed in Bomb Attack in Bajaur

Bajaur: Tragedy struck in Bajaur’s Damadola village as a remote-controlled bomb explosion claimed the lives of at least five individuals, including former senator Hidayat Ullah, according to local police reports.

The incident occurred when Hidayat Ullah’s vehicle was targeted by a remote-controlled device as he was returning from Damadola village after supporting his nephew Najeeb Ullah Khan’s election campaign in PK-22 constituency. The blast also resulted in the deaths of Malik Irfan and Nazar Deen, among others, completely destroying the vehicle.

Hidayat Ullah hailed from a prominent political family, with his father, Haji Bismillah Khan, and brother, former governor Shaukat Ullah, having held significant political positions. He served as an independent senator and was actively involved in legislative and committee work, notably chairing the Senate’s Aviation Committee and contributing to national counter-terrorism efforts.

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The tragic incident has prompted widespread condemnation from political figures including President Asif Ali Zardari, Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. President Zardari denounced the act of terrorism, expressing condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the departed souls.

Senate Chairman Gilani described the attack as cowardly, highlighting Hidayat Ullah’s dedicated service to the nation and pledging swift justice for those responsible. Interior Minister Naqvi also condemned the bomb blast, extending sympathies to the victims’ families.

While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, the incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Pakistan’s tribal regions, with recent terrorist activities attributed to groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).