23 killed in two bomb attacks in Pakistani city of Peshawar

TWO bombs exploded hours apart in the Pakistani city of Peshawar yesterday, killing 23 people and underscoring the reach of militants despite successive military offensives close to the Afghan border.

A suicide bomber was behind the deadliest blast, which occurred just before dusk in a crowded market area. Police said the target was apparently officers watching over a rally by members of a political party against power cuts in the city.

Police officers and protesters were among the 22 people killed and more than 30 injured, said police chief Liaqat Ali Khan.