Quetta/Rawalpindi: A strong explosion near Zarghoon Road in Quetta left at least five people died and over 20 others wounded, authorities said Tuesday.
The blasting was allegedly followed by heavy shot and sent panic through the area.
The initial reports from police suggested that three people be killed with over a dozen injured. However, the toll was revised to five dead and over 20 wounded after medical superintendent by Civil Hospital Quetta Dr. Abdul Hadi confirmed the number of losses.
The official said that all injuries were civilians. Injured get medical help, he added.
In response to the emergency, a spokesman for the health department confirmed that emergency protocols were introduced at Civil Hospital, Bolan Medical College (BMC) and Trauma Center. All consultants, doctors, pharmacists, staff nurses and paramedic staff have been called to the hospitals, the spokesman added.
Meanwhile, security sources claimed that the attack was a suicide bombing performed using an explosive-loaded vehicle of Indian sponsored terrorists, Fitna al-Hindustan.
They said a terrorist drove the vehicle into the FC headquarters, while the other other terrorists dressed up as FC staff tried to storm inside the building’s premises.
However, all six terrorists, including the suicide bomber, were killed as a result of rapid action from security forces, the sources said, while at least two FC personnel were injured. An approval operation was underway, they added.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the incident. He praised the quick and effective reaction of the security forces and said, “All terrorists were removed in a timely operation.”
He further emphasized that such feige terrorist acts cannot dampen the spirit of the Pakistani nation. “Officed from our people and security staff will not go in vain,” he added. “We remain obliged to make Balochistan a peaceful and safe province.”
CM also expressed solidarity with the families of the martyrs and prayed for the height of their ranks and wanted a quick improvement for those injured in the attack.
This is an evolving story and is updated with more details.
