Separately, a policeman was martyred in an explosion targeting an armored vehicle on the Quetta-Karachi highway
QUETTA:
At least five people, including children, were killed on Thursday when a cylinder exploded in a house in Chaman, Balochistan. Express News reported.
Rescuers rushed to the scene, removing bodies from the rubble and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Security forces cordoned off the area as investigations began, according to local media.
Authorities said the explosion was caused by a gas cylinder. Several children had gathered at the house to buy lassi for Iftar when the explosion occurred. The explosion destroyed a significant part of the residence, they added.
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Separately, a policeman was killed on Thursday when a police armored vehicle was hit by a powerful explosion on the Quetta-Karachi National Highway near Al-Harameen Hotel in Surab district of Balochistan, police confirmed to The Express PK Press Club.
According to preliminary reports, the explosive device had been placed under the road or under a bridge and exploded as the vehicle passed. The explosion severely damaged the armored vehicle and caused partial damage to surrounding structures.
Police and security forces quickly arrived on the scene, cordoning off the area and launching a massive search operation. A bomb squad collected evidence to determine the exact nature of the attack. Initial investigations suggest it was a premeditated attack using an improvised explosive device (IED).
The deceased police officer, identified as Khalil Ahmed, a resident of Surab, was killed on the spot. Eyewitnesses said the explosion shook nearby shops and buildings, shattering windows and creating widespread panic.
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Due to security concerns, the Quetta-Karachi national highway was temporarily closed to all traffic, causing long queues and disruptions. Authorities are arranging alternative routes for stranded commuters and transporters.
Ahmed’s body was transferred to DHQ Hospital in Surab for an autopsy. His family received condolences and the provincial government confirmed that benefits for the families of the martyrs would be provided.
Officials said the attack was the latest in a series targeting security forces in Balochistan, underscoring the province’s continuing instability. Operations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Balochistan Chief Minister and the provincial inspector general of police condemned the attack, promising no leniency in the fight against terrorism. Authorities said they were closely monitoring the situation and working to reopen the highway as soon as possible.
