At least five people were killed and 29 others injured in a powerful explosion near a Balochistan National Party (BNP-M) rally in Quetta on Tuesday. The gathering was held to mark the 4th death anniversary of Sardar Attaullah Mengal.
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The blast occurred near Shahwani Stadium shortly after the rally, with initial reports suggesting that it targeted BNP chief Akhtar Mengal and his convoy. Fortunately, Mengal remained unharmed.
Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed the casualties, while police officials indicated that investigators are determining whether the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) or a suicide attack.
BNP spokesperson Sajid Tareen stated that 13 party workers were affected in the attack, emphasizing the timing of the explosion as Mengal’s vehicle passed by. Several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly act by the enemies of humanity” and directed authorities to ensure medical care for victims. He also ordered a high-level investigation and instructed law enforcement agencies to apprehend those responsible.
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Security has been tightened across Quetta following the explosion, though no group has claimed responsibility for the incident.
