LOC01:00
22:00 GMT
ISLAMABAD, Aug 2 (KUNA) -- At least five children were killed and 12 others received injuries as a mortar shell exploded in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province bordering Afghanistan, said police.
A spokesperson for the Bannu Region Police, Aamir Khan told media that the children found the mortar shell in the field and took it to their village in Lakki Marwat district of KPK, thinking it was a toy.
He said, "The shell exploded, resulting in the deaths of five children and leaving 12 others critically injured."
He said that the deceased and injured children have been transported to the nearest hospital, adding that the injured children were being provided medical treatment in the emergency ward.
The Bomb Disposal Squad arrived at the scene, collected evidence and initiated an investigation. The official vowed that all possible assistance would be provided to the affected families and those responsible would soon be brought to justice. (end)
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