A devastating car bombing rocked Quetta, the capital of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, on Tuesday. The blast occurred just outside the Frontier Constabulary (FC) headquarters, the paramilitary force responsible for security operations in the region. At least eight people have been repeatedly confirmed dead, with multiple others injured, according to provincial authorities.
How the Attack Unfolded
CCTV footage and eyewitness reports indicate that a car pulled up in front of the FC compound, followed by a massive explosion that sent flames and black smoke into the sky. Before the detonation, four armed attackers reportedly exited the vehicle and engaged security forces in a fierce gun battle. The blast was heard from miles away, and it shattered windows and damaged nearby vehicles and buildings. Ambulances quickly arrived at the scene, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals.
Who’s Behind the Attack?
No group has officially claimed responsibility as of now. However, some reports suggest the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) could be behind the assault. The BLA and other separatist groups have long been active in the region, demanding independence from Pakistan and frequently targeting security forces.
Government Response
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack, stating that all four attackers were killed by security personnel in the exchange of fire. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve, saying, “Terrorists cannot break the nation’s resolve through cowardly acts, and the sacrifices of our people and security forces will not go in vain.”
Context: A Region in Turmoil
This attack follows a suicide bombing just weeks earlier near a stadium in Quetta, which killed at least 13 and injured 30 people. Balochistan remains a hotspot for insurgency, where separatist militants frequently carry out deadly attacks on security forces and civilians alike.
Security remains on high alert across the province. With fears of further attacks and a potentially rising death toll, authorities are continuing their investigation. The incident adds to the growing concerns around stability and security in Balochistan, a region that has long struggled with insurgent violence.
