Tragic Blast in Mastung Claims Lives of Three Policemen, Injures Several Others
Mastung, Balochistan – A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday when a vehicle of the Balochistan Constabulary was targeted by an improvised explosive device (IED) on Dasht Road in the Mastung district. The explosion resulted in the loss of three police personnel and left 16 others injured, according to official sources.
Government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that the vehicle was carrying law enforcement officers returning from Kalat at the time of the attack. He added that two of the injured officers are in critical condition. All wounded personnel were initially shifted to a nearby medical facility, with the more serious cases being transported to Quetta for specialized care.
In light of the emergency, both Bolan Medical Complex Hospital and Civil Hospital in Quetta were placed on high alert to ensure immediate treatment for the injured.
Security forces promptly cordoned off the affected area, and an investigation is currently underway. At this time, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Leaders Condemn the Attack, Express Solidarity
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the incident, expressing deep grief over the loss of lives. They offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyred personnel and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.
President Zardari reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to stand united against terrorism, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the best medical care for the injured. He stated, “We will not allow terrorists to destabilize peace. Our resolve to eliminate terrorism remains unwavering.”
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti also denounced the attack and instructed health authorities to provide the best possible treatment to the injured. He assured that the provincial government stands firmly with the families of the martyrs and those affected by the tragedy.
Ongoing Protests in the Region
It is noteworthy that the Mastung district has seen recent unrest, including a suicide blast last month near the BNP-Mengal sit-in at Lak Pass. Thankfully, no casualties were reported in that incident.
BNP-Mengal chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal has been leading a sit-in protest in the area for over two weeks, demanding the release of detained women. Despite several attempts by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leaders, including Salim Khoso, to engage in dialogue, Mengal has remained steadfast in continuing the protest.