Separately, officer was martyred in blast targeting armored vehicle on Quetta-Karachi highway
QUETTA:
At least five people, including children, were killed on Thursday when a cylinder exploded inside a house in Balochistan’s Chaman, Express news reported.
Rescue volunteers rushed to the scene, removed bodies from the rubble and transported the injured to nearby hospitals. Security forces cordoned off the area as the investigation began, according to local media.
Authorities said the explosion was caused by a gas cylinder. Several children gathered at the house to buy lassi for Iftar when the blast happened. The blast destroyed a significant portion of the home, they added.
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Separately, a police officer was martyred on Thursday when an armored police vehicle was hit by a heavy blast on Quetta-Karachi National Highway near Al-Harameen Hotel in Surab district of Balochistan, police confirmed. Express Pakinomist.
Preliminary reports indicated that the explosive had been planted under the road or a bridge and detonated as the vehicle passed. The explosion severely damaged the armored vehicle and caused partial damage to surrounding structures.
Police and security forces immediately arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area and launched an extensive search operation. A bomb disposal team gathered evidence to establish the exact nature of the attack. Early investigations suggest it was a premeditated attack using an improvised explosive device (IED).
The deceased officer, identified as Khalil Ahmed, a resident of Surab, was killed instantly. Witnesses said the explosion rattled nearby shops and buildings, shattered glass and caused widespread panic.
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Due to security concerns, the Quetta-Karachi National Highway was temporarily closed to all traffic, causing long queues and disruption. Authorities are arranging alternative routes for stranded commuters and transporters.
Ahmed’s body was transferred to the DHQ Hospital in Surab for a post-mortem. Condolences have been offered to his family and the provincial government confirmed that benefits will be provided to martyrs’ families.
Officials said the attack is the latest in a series targeting security forces in Balochistan, highlighting the province’s continued instability. Operations are underway to nab the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Balochistan’s chief minister and the provincial police inspector condemned the attack and promised no leniency in the fight against terrorism. Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation and working to reopen the highway as soon as possible.
