On the other hand, a policeman is martyred in an explosion targeting an armored vehicle on the Quetta-Karachi highway.
QUETA:
At least five people, including children, were killed on Thursday when a cylinder exploded inside a house in Chaman, Balochistan. Express News reported.
Rescue volunteers rushed to the scene, removing bodies from the rubble and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Security forces cordoned off the area as investigations began, according to local media reports.
Authorities said the explosion was caused by a gas cylinder. Several children had gathered at the house to buy lassi for Iftar when the explosion occurred. The explosion destroyed a significant part of the residence, they added.
Also read: Soldier martyred in drone attack Tank and three kidnapped brothers found dead in Bannu
Separately, a police officer was martyred on Thursday when an armored police vehicle was hit by a powerful explosion on the Quetta-Karachi national highway near Al-Harameen hotel in Surab district of Balochistan, police confirmed to The express PAkGazette.
Preliminary reports indicated that the explosive device had been placed under the road or a bridge and detonated as the vehicle passed by. The explosion severely damaged the armored vehicle and caused partial damage to surrounding structures.
Police and security forces quickly arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area and launched an extensive search operation. A bomb disposal team collected evidence to determine the exact nature of the attack. Initial investigations suggest that it was a premeditated attack with an improvised explosive device (IED).
The deceased officer, identified as Khalil Ahmed, a resident of Surab, died instantly. Eyewitnesses said the explosion shook nearby shops and buildings, shattered windows and caused widespread panic.
Read more: India’s statement on Balochistan attack confirms Pakistan’s view on New Delhi’s role: FO
For security reasons, the Quetta-Karachi national highway was temporarily closed to traffic, causing long queues and disruption. Authorities are organizing alternative routes for stranded travelers and transporters.
Ahmed’s body was shifted to DHQ hospital in Surab for post-mortem examination. His family received condolences and the provincial government confirmed that designated benefits will be provided for the families of the martyrs.
Authorities said the attack is the latest in a series against security forces in Balochistan, highlighting the province’s ongoing instability. Operations are underway to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The chief minister of Balochistan and the inspector general of provincial police condemned the attack and vowed not to be lenient in the fight against terrorism. Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation and working to reopen the highway as soon as possible.
