Pakistan: Blast kills five people in Peshawar hotel May 11

Event

At least five people were killed and two wounded in an explosion at the Afandi Hotel on Grand Trunk Road in Peshawar in the early morning hours of Friday, May 11. The blast also started a fire in the building, causing emergency responders to evacuate the other guests. Police officials said an investigation into the cause of the blast is ongoing and a bomb disposal unit has been deployed.

Context

According to the authorities, initial reports indicate that the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak in one of the rooms.

Advice

Individuals in Peshawar are advised to avoid the area of the incident until the situation returns to normal and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.

As a reminder, most Western embassies advise their citizens against all travel to Peshawar, due a high threat of terrorism, kidnap and sectarian violence. Individuals present in Pakistan are advised to be extra vigilant at all times. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.