SHARAN (Pajhwok): Four people were killed and over 20 wounded in a blast in the Janikhel district of southeastern Paktika province on Wednesday, an official said.

Raz Mohammad Mukhles, administrative chief of Khairkot district, confirmed to Pajhwok Afghan News the casualties and said most of the victims were shopkeepers.

But, deputy police chief Col. Abdul Rauf Masud said two people were killed and eight others wounded in the blast which occured today noon. He feared the number of causalities may surge.

Malak Zahir Khan, the resident of locality, said the blast was carried out through an explosive-rigged motorcycle.

Earlier, 13 civilians were killed and three others wounded in a roadside explosion in the Urgon district.

nh