A suicide bombing near Shahwani Stadium in Quetta’s Sariab late Tuesday killed 15 people and injured 32 others. The attack followed a rally of the Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal), held in memory of Sardar Attaullah Mengal. The militant Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the bombing, according to AFP.
Official Briefing on the Attack
Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat said the blast occurred 500 metres from the rally’s exit point. He confirmed the rally had ended hours before, with the explosion striking at 9:45pm in a dimly lit area. Shafqaat noted that 120 police officers were deployed, preventing the attacker from entering the main gathering. The bomber, under 30 years old, carried about eight kilogrammes of explosives. Authorities recovered his remains.
Compensation and Security Measures
The Balochistan government announced Rs1.5 million compensation for families of the deceased and Rs0.5m for the injured. Minor victims will receive Rs200,000 each. Shafqaat added that Section 144 has been enforced across Balochistan until September 15. Public gatherings after sunset are prohibited, especially during Eid Miladun Nabi. He urged citizens to trust law enforcement agencies and report suspicious activity.
CM Bugti Vows Justice
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the attack, pledging swift justice. He stressed that terrorists would not destabilise peace in the province. During a high-level security meeting, officials briefed him on the incident. Bugti directed strict security enforcement and real-time updates to counter misinformation. He visited hospitals, met victims, and ensured government support for treatment.
National Condemnation
President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the bombing, ordering a comprehensive investigation. He expressed grief, extended condolences, and urged the best care for survivors. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking from Beijing, also condemned the attack. He called it proof of a terrorist conspiracy against Balochistan’s peace. The prime minister vowed continued war on terrorism until its eradication. He pledged exemplary punishment for those responsible.
