QUETTA: A powerful explosion ripped through Quetta’s Saryab Road near Shahwani Stadium late Saturday night, leaving at least 11 people dead and several others injured.
According to security officials, the blast occurred shortly after a large political gathering organized by the Balochistan National Party (BNP) to mark the death anniversary of veteran Baloch leader Sardar Attaullah Mengal. The event, attended by thousands, was also addressed by BNP chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal and Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai. Both leaders departed minutes before the blast.
Initial reports suggest that the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who detonated explosives among the dispersing crowd at around 9:45 pm. The explosion caused chaos, with several vehicles and nearby shops damaged by the impact. Rescue teams rushed the injured to nearby hospitals where emergency has been declared.
As per the security sources initial investigations point towards the involvement of militants linked to Fitna al-Hindustan, allegedly operating with external support. They added that possible connections to the recent neutralization of Akhtar Mengal’s sit-in are also being probed. Officials emphasized that any group or individuals found responsible will face strict action.
So far, 11 fatalities have been confirmed while the death toll may rise as several injured remain in critical condition. The security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a comprehensive search operation.
Meanwhile, in another operation in Bannu, KP, six Indian-sponsored militants belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij were neutralized after they attempted to storm the Federal Constabulary Headquarters. The fierce exchange left five soldiers martyred and three civilians injured, while all attackers were eliminated.
Security forces have reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue its decisive operations against foreign-backed militants, vowing that peace and stability in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be restored with the support of the people.
