Two roadside blasts in Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province killed at least seven people and wounded three. A private pickup truck carrying passengers was targeted by a remote-controlled IED, and a second explosion occurred as the injured were being transported to a hospital. According to apnews.com, five people died in the first blast and two in the second. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blasts. The Pakistani Taliban are suspected of being responsible for the blasts, based on past patterns. The militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan is very active in the region.

In separate incidents, Police Constable Mishqat Amir was shot and killed on Bannu-Miranshah Road near Azad Mandi, and Police Constable Muhammad Roshan was shot and killed outside his residence in Saidgi Baka Khel, according to dawn. Police authorities termed both incidents acts of terrorism. Search and intelligence-based operations are underway to trace and arrest those responsible for the police killings.

Relations between Pakistan and the Taliban government in Kabul have deteriorated into armed conflict, including Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan cities. Pakistan blames Afghanistan for the rise in attacks in the country. The Taliban government in Kabul denies Pakistan’s accusations that Afghan territory is used as a safe haven for militants.

President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed condolences to the families of those killed and prayed for the speedy recovery of the wounded, according to apnews.com. He also issued a warning to 'internal and external handlers of terrorism' who provide safe havens, logistical support and financial assistance to militant networks. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attacks and expressed sorrow over the casualties, according to khaleejtimes.com. The government remains committed to eliminating terrorism and bringing those responsible to justice, according to khaleejtimes.com.