Quetta: An explosion occurred in the parking area at the conclusion of a BNP-Mengal public gathering near Saryab Road, resulting in the death of 13 party workers and injuring several others. Former MPA Ahmed Nawaz Baloch and senior party leader Moosa Baloch were also among the injured.
According to sources, the blast was not targeted at Akhtar Mengal; rather, ordinary civilians were the victims. Akhtar Mengal and Mahmood Khan Achakzai had left the venue about half an hour before the explosion. Most of the casualties were reportedly poor citizens.
BNP Vice President Sajid Tarin, speaking to the media at Civil Hospital Quetta, described the incident as tragic and said the party had anticipated the possibility of such an unfortunate event. He added that prior coordination for the rally and security arrangements had been made with the district administration, but terrorists targeted the parking area and attacked party workers.
Sajid Tarin further stated that the injured were immediately transported to the hospital and are receiving medical care. He emphasized that the party and the public remain united against terrorism, and such attacks cannot weaken their resolve.
Following the explosion, security forces cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. Rescue teams were dispatched to the site, and emergency services were activated in hospitals. Doctors, paramedics, and other medical staff were called in to provide urgent treatment.
A vehicle belonging to National Party leader Mir Kabir Ahmed Muhammad Shahi was completely destroyed in the blast; fortunately, the security guards inside remained unharmed. Another bulletproof vehicle sustained damage to its glass, but Mir Kabir remained safe, though one of his gunmen was injured.
The blast also injured around 30 BNP workers, including former MPA Ahmed Nawaz Baloch, who were transferred to Civil Hospital Quetta. Initial reports indicate that some workers have died. Trauma Center at Civil Hospital Quetta has so far received five bodies and 15 injured patients, and medical treatment continues.
A spokesperson for the Balochistan Health Department urged blood donors in Quetta to urgently donate blood at the hospital due to the critical need for patients at the Trauma Center.
Federal Interior Minister Condemns Quetta Blast
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the explosion outside the stadium near Saryab Road in Quetta. Expressing grief over the loss of precious lives, he extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
He stated that terrorists sponsored by foreign elements, especially from India, are targeting innocent people to create instability in the country. Minister Naqvi appealed to the nation to support the government and security forces in thwarting the malicious designs of these terrorists.
He added that with the support of the public, the nefarious plans of terrorists will be foiled, and peace in the country will be ensured at all costs.
