According to security sources, the vehicle was struck by a remotely controlled improvised explosive device that had been planted along the roadside as Gul was returning home.

A passer-by and one of Gul’s companions were also injured in the explosion and shifted to Kohat Development Authority Teaching Hospital for treatment.

Haji Izzat Gul was initially taken in critical condition to the THQ Hospital before being transferred to Peshawar, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

However, District Police Officer Tariq Habib Khan said doctors informed police that Gul died of a heart attack following the blast.

The DPO said the explosion damaged the front windscreen of the vehicle and confirmed that investigators had collected key forensic evidence from the scene.

Haji Izzat Gul had played a significant role in efforts to resolve security and tribal disputes in Hangu, Orakzai, Kurram and Parachinar.

Law enforcement agencies cordoned off the area immediately after the attack and launched a search operation while an investigation into the incident is underway.