QUETTA: A powerful explosion on Double Road killed at least three people and injured 21 others, including security personnel, shopkeepers, and bystanders. The blast, which targeted a police van on routine patrol, left officers inside the vehicle severely injured.
Rescue teams and law enforcement rushed to the scene, shifting the injured to Sandeman Hospital. According to Police Surgeon Dr Ayesha Faiz, three people lost their lives, while several victims remain in critical condition. Dr Abdul Hadi, the Medical Superintendent (MS) of Sandeman Hospital, confirmed that four patients are fighting for their lives, while Dr Arbab Kamran, Managing Director of the Trauma Centre, said emergency medical aid is being provided to all injured.
Authorities declared an emergency at Sandeman Hospital, calling in all medical staff to handle the situation. Security forces immediately cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the attack.
Balochistan has seen a sharp rise in terrorist attacks in recent months, with security forces frequently targeted. The attack comes amid heightened security concerns as militants have stepped up their activities in the province.
President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the blast, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He stated that such attacks, particularly during Ramazan, reflect the nefarious designs of terrorists. The president prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the deceased and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also wished for the swift recovery of the injured.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also denounced the attack and ordered an immediate investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. He directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured and vowed that efforts against terrorism would continue until the menace is completely eradicated.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a statement on X, condemned the explosion and expressed solidarity with the victims. He said enemy forces are targeting Balochistan and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to thwarting these conspiracies.
Pakistan has experienced a notable surge in terrorist incidents in recent months. In January 2025, terror attacks rose by 42% compared to the previous month, according to data from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). At least 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, leading to 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 people were injured, with 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants among them.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan remain the most-affected regions. In KP’s settled districts alone, militants carried out 27 attacks, causing 19 deaths, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants.
With terrorism resurging, security agencies remain on high alert, while authorities continue efforts to eliminate militant networks operating in the country.
