The blast has left at least 11 people dead and 22 others injured critically
Islamabad: In the Pakistani province of Balochistan, a bomb placed in a passenger bus exploded, in the late hours of the Monday afternoon. The bus commuting in the Western city of Quetta, was said to have workers from the centre of Quetta, travelling to their suburban homes after working day.
While Balochistan has known many pro-Islamist and separatist insurgencies, no organization has claimed responsibility for the act so far. However, the region was on alert as this month is one of mourning for the Shias. This attack occurred on a backdrop of reduced violence in Pakistan, killing 11 civilians instantly and wounding 23 others severely.
The bomb was found to have been placed on the roof of the bus. According to the police, at least 6 kgs worth of explosives were used in a timed device. The blast made it essential for the authorities to enforce an emergency in all the city hospitals.
The police has begun investigations and has emphasized that its best efforts would be put into discovering the culprit. Stated the provincial Interior Minister, Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti, ”This is a cowardly act that has targeted innocent people. We are fighting against terrorism here. And we will keep fighting until the last terrorist is killed.”
Local volunteers came out to support the police soon after the attack. Even with the ongoing probe, the province continues to be on alert, especially until the holy day of Muharram.
Source: BBC
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