By Gul Dar Khan (Chief Reporter)
A devastating suicide blast on Friday claimed the lives of at least 50 people, including a senior police officer, during a procession commemorating Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) in Mastung, Balochistan, police confirmed. Over 100 others were injured, many critically, raising fears of a higher death toll.
According to police sources, DSP Mastung and Nawaz Gishkori were among the victims. Balochistan’s Secretary of Health, Asfandyar Khan Kakar, confirmed that rescue teams swiftly transported the injured to nearby hospitals, where an emergency has been declared.
The explosion occurred near Al-Falah Mosque, where participants were gathering for the religious procession. Authorities cordoned off the area as law enforcement and rescue personnel rushed to the scene.
Government Response and Security Measures
Balochistan’s interim Information Minister, Jan Achakzai, condemned the attack and confirmed that those with severe injuries were being transferred to Quetta for specialized care. He reassured the public that rescue efforts were underway, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the victims receive the best possible medical attention.
Following the attack, Karachi Police were placed on high alert, with Additional Inspector General Khadim Husain Rind directing enhanced security measures across the city. Punjab Police also intensified their efforts to safeguard religious events and Friday prayers.
Nationwide Condemnations
The attack drew widespread condemnation from political leaders. Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi expressed solidarity with the victims, stating, “Cowardly acts of terror will not weaken the nation’s resolve.” He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism in collaboration with security forces.
Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti called the attack during a sacred event “heinous” and vowed to utilize all available resources for rescue and relief efforts. He reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, emphasizing that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the bombing, describing it as a “detestable” act against both humanity and religious values. He urged authorities to provide the best possible treatment for the injured.
Context and Recent Events
The Mastung district has seen a surge in militant activity. Earlier this month, senior Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) leader Hafiz Hamdullah survived a similar attack. The latest bombing came just days after a key Islamic State (IS) commander was neutralized in the area by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), highlighting the region’s ongoing security challenges.
