At least five people were killed and 29 others injured in a powerful explosion near a public rally organised by the Balochistan National Party (BNP) in Quetta on Tuesday. According to reports, the blast occurred near Shahwani Stadium after BNP-M’s gathering, held to observe Sardar Attaullah Mengal’s 4th death anniversary. Balochistan’s Minister for Health, Bakht Muhammad Kakar, confirmed the casualty figures. "We have received five bodies and 29 injured so far," he said. Also Read: Six soldiers martyred, five terrorists killed in Bannu attack: ISPR According to police officials, initial reports indicate that the explosion targeted BNP chief Akhtar Mengal and his convoy, however, Mengal remained unharmed in the incident. Law enforcement agencies and security forces swiftly cordoned off the area following the blast, while emergency responders transported the injured to nearby hospital. The condition of several victims is reported to be critical. Speaking to the media, BNP spokesperson Sajid Tareen claimed that 13 party workers had been martyred in the attack. “The moment Akhtar Mengal’s vehicle passed by, a loud explosion occurred,” he said. Investigators are working to determine the nature of the explosion and whether it was through an improvised explosive device (IED) or a suicide attack. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the attack, calling it a ‘cowardly act by the enemies of humanity’. He added, “Such acts of terrorism are meant to destabilise the province and spread fear among innocent citizens.” Read: 881 dead as Pakistan reels in devastating floods Bugti directed authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care and called for a high-level investigation into the incident. He also instructed law enforcement agencies to arrest those responsible, at the earliest. A special investigation committee has been formed and tasked with submitting a report as soon as possible. Security has been beefed up in and around Quetta in the aftermath of the explosion. No group has claimed responsibility for the bombing so far.
from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/6CO4WhV
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