A bomb explosion at a train station has resulted in dozens of fatalities and widespread devastation. Read the latest updates on the tragic incident and its aftermath.
A fatal bomb explosion at a railway station in Quetta, southwestern Pakistan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 24 individuals and injured more than 40 others, according to police and officials cited by Reuters.
Pakistan is experiencing an increase in attacks from separatist militants in the Balochistan province as well as Islamist groups in its northwest regions. The persistent insurgency in Balochistan has heightened instability, prompting concerns about the security of projects aimed at tapping into the province’s untapped natural resources.
Mouzzam Jah Ansari, the Inspector General of Police for Balochistan, confirmed that there were fatalities resulting from the bombing at the usually bustling railway station. “The attack targeted army personnel from the Infantry School,” Ansari mentioned, noting that several of those injured are in critical condition.
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The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group, has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it is part of their ongoing struggle for Balochistan’s independence. This province, home to approximately 15 million people, has been at the center of conflict as the BLA contends that the government exploits its gas and mineral resources without providing benefits to local residents.
Dr. Wasim Baig, a hospital spokesperson, stated that 44 injured people were transported to a local medical facility. “To date, 44 injured individuals have been admitted to the civil hospital,” he informed Reuters.
Muhammad Baloch, the Senior Superintendent of Police Operations, indicated that it was probably a suicide bombing and stated that investigations are still underway. “The explosion occurred inside the railway station just as the Peshawar-bound express was preparing to depart,” Baloch clarified.
In August, a wave of militant attacks swept through Balochistan, resulting in the deaths of at least 73 people and marking one of the most lethal episodes of violence in recent years. These assaults were directed at police stations, railway tracks, and highways as part of a broader insurgency pushing for the secession of this resource-rich southwestern province. Significantly, Balochistan is home to major China-backed infrastructure projects such as a port and an expansive gold and copper mine.
REUTERS
