Tragedy struck the city of Quetta in southwestern Pakistan on Saturday as a suicide bombing at the main railway station claimed the lives of at least 25 people and left 53 others injured. The incident, which occurred at around 9 a.m. on a platform at the station, was confirmed as a suicide bombing by Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group operating in the region, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation, with individuals lying injured and dismembered on the platform.
Among the casualties were passengers, railway employees, and security personnel. Security forces have sealed off the area as investigations into the bombing are ongoing. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has ordered an inquiry into the tragic incident.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. The BLA, known for its violent activities in the region, has been linked to several deadly attacks in Pakistan this year, including the recent targeting of Chinese engineers and investors in Karachi.
The province of Balochistan has been plagued by a long-standing insurgency, which has intensified in recent years following the leasing of the Gwadar port to China as part of the 'Belt and Road' initiative. The strategic port has become a focal point for Chinese investment in Pakistan, drawing the ire of separatist groups like the BLA.
