A petty dispute that began on social media escalated into a deadly armed clash in Bhakkar, leaving two young men dead and five others injured.

Following the tragic incident, authorities have approved the establishment of a permanent police post at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital to strengthen security and ensure a rapid response to emergencies.

As per a notification issued by District Police Officer (DPO) Shahzad Rafiq Awan, the new police post will be staffed by seven personnel, including one female and six male officers.

The move is aimed at enhancing hospital security and enabling action in emergency situations.

Police said the incident occurred on Gudwala Darya Khan Road within the jurisdiction of Sadar Bhakkar Police Station.

A verbal dispute between two groups of youths, which reportedly began on TikTok and other social media platforms, intensified and eventually led to an exchange of gunfire.

As a result, one young man from each side, identified as Shiraz and Zohaib, was killed, while five others sustained injuries.

Upon receiving information about the shooting, police rushed to the scene, brought the situation under control and shifted the injured to hospital for medical treatment.

DPO Shahzad Rafiq Awan took notice of the incident and visited DHQ Hospital, where he met the injured victims.

He said police teams were conducting raids at various locations to arrest those involved in the clash and vowed that all suspects would soon be brought to justice.

The DPO added that the establishment of a permanent police post at DHQ hospital would further strengthen security arrangements, provide a safer environment for doctors and healthcare workers and ensure an effective quick-response mechanism to deal with any future emergencies or violent incidents.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Ehsan Ali Jamali, accompanied by DPO Shahzad Rafiq Awan, paid a special visit to DHQ hospital.

SP Investigation Shaukat Ali, Chief Executive Officer Health and Population Dr Mazhar Abbas Khan, doctors, and paramedical staff were also present.

During the visit, officials reviewed hospital security arrangements and discussed issues faced by medical staff.