QUETTA:
At least five people died and another 29 wounds in a powerful explosion near a public demonstration organized by the National Baluchistan Party (BNP) in Quetta on Tuesday.
According to the reports, the explosion occurred near the Shahwani stadium after the BNP-M meeting, held to observe the fourth anniversary of the death of Sardar Attaullah Mengal.
Baluchistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed the figures of victims. “We have received five bodies and 29 wounded so far,” he said.
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According to police officers, the initial reports indicate that the explosion attacked the bnp chief, Akhtar Mengal and his convoy, however, Mengal remained unharmed in the incident.
The law enforcement agencies and security forces quickly cordoned off the area after the explosion, while emergency responders transported the injured to the nearby hospital. It is reported that the condition of several victims is critical.
In statements to the media, BNP spokesman Sajid Tareen said that 13 party workers had been martyred in the attack. “At the time the Akhtar Mengal vehicle passed, a strong explosion occurred,” he said.
Researchers are working to determine the nature of the explosion and if it was through an improvised explosive device (FDI) or a suicide attack.
Baluchistan’s prime minister, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly act of the enemies of humanity.” He added: “Such acts of terrorism are destined to destabilize the province and spread fear among innocent citizens.”
Bugti ordered the authorities to ensure that the injured receive the best possible medical care and requested a high level investigation into the incident. He also instructed the law enforcement agencies to arrest those responsible, as soon as possible.
A special research committee has been formed and formed and in charge of submitting a report as soon as possible. Security has been reinforced in Quetta and its surroundings after the explosion.
No group has assumed the responsibility of the bombing so far.
