Islamabad: In a devastating act of violence, at least 27 people were killed and 62 others wounded in a suicide bombing at a railway station in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, on Saturday. The attack occurred as passengers gathered to board the Jafar Express headed for Peshawar. Authorities report that the assailants successfully infiltrated the crowded station with the intent of executing a suicide mission. Hamza Shafqat, Commissioner of Quetta Division, stated that preventing the attackers from carrying out their plan proved challenging. The tragic incident has left the community in shock and mourning. Among the deceased are 14 security personnel who were on duty at the station, attempting to maintain safety for the passengers.
Superintendent of Police (Campaign) Muhammad Baloch indicated that the death toll may rise as many of the injured are in critical condition. In response to the attack, provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind announced that security measures in the area have been heightened. The injured were quickly transported to a government hospital for treatment. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a group classified as a terrorist organization by the Pakistani government, has claimed responsibility for the attack.
In a statement, the BLA asserted that their actions were a response to what they perceive as the exploitation of Balochistan's resources by the Pakistani government, alongside a disregard for the region's development. As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the aftermath of this heinous act, calling for greater security and support to prevent such tragedies in the future. The loss of life in this incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the region and the urgent need for solutions to address the complex issues at play.
