A devastating explosion rocked a religious gathering in the Mastung district of Pakistan’s southwest Balochistan province on Friday. The explosion, which occurred during a religious procession, has resulted in the death of more than 52 individuals, including a police officer, and left around 50 others injured.
According to news agency Dawan, the casualties have been confirmed by local authorities and health officials. District Health Officer (DHO) Abdul Rasheed Shahi has provided the information about the casualties, while City Station House Officer (SHO) Mohammad Javed Lehri has shared that one of the victims was a police official.
The incident occurred during the gathering for an Eid-i-Miladun Nabi procession near Madina Masjid on Alfalah Road. The unexpected explosion brought a wave of sadness and hopelessness to the nearby community.
According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar expressed his strong condemnation of the explosion in Mastung and reiterated the government’s resolve to eradicate terrorism from the nation.
In their separate statements, the premier and President Dr Arif Alvi expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of people and directed the authorities concerned to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured.
Immediate Response and Ongoing Efforts
After the explosion, emergency services rushed to the scene swiftly, and local hospitals declared a state of emergency to accommodate the influx of casualties, the news agency reported. Dozens of injured individuals are currently undergoing treatment at the Shaheed Nawab Ghous Bakhsh Raisani Memorial Hospital, as stated by Dr. Saeed Mirwani to news agency Dawn. Furthermore, more than 20 injured individuals have been referred to Quetta for additional medical assistance.
“The process of moving bodies and injured persons is under way,” said the hospital CEO, noting that 22 individuals were shifted to the Mastung district hospital.
Investigation: Sucide attack:
Local authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the explosion. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. According to the preliminary reports and police investigation, it was a suicide attack. The relevant authorities are probing the matter and collecting forensic evidence to determine the exact nature of the explosion, said police.The incident has sparked condemnation from across the country, with calls for justice resounding from all quarters.
A Tragic event
This tragic event marks one of the deadliest incidents in recent history in Balochistan, a province that has been grappling with sporadic violence and instability. The international community has expressed its condolences and solidarity with the victims and their grieving families.
A Call for Peace and Resilience
To mourn the unfortunate incident, the provincial government announced three-day mourning across the province following the tragedy, with the national flag flying at half-mast on government buildings during the mourning period.
As the region mourns this profound loss of life, it serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for continued efforts towards peace and stability in the region. The resilience of the local community will be tested in these challenging times as they come together to heal and rebuild.
This is a developing story. Please stay tuned for updates.
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