Tragedy averted? Suicide bomb attack in Quetta leaves two dead

The bomber was carrying eight kilogrammes of explosives and wanted to enter the Eid shopping market in Hazara Town

QUETTA: At least two people were killed when security officials stopped a suspected suicide bomber near Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University on Brewery road in Quetta early on Saturday morning.

According to initial details, guards had intercepted a suspect who wanted to enter the Eidul Fitr shopping market in Hazara Town. On being asked to stop, the bomber reportedly detonated the explosives, killing two people.

Soon after the blast, officials of the FC and Police cordon off the area. The bomb disposal squad was also called in.

According to officials the bomber was aged between 18-20 years of age and was wearing a full body veil (burqa) like the ones taken by women. He was carrying around eight kilogrammes of explosives

The bodies of the victims were shifted to the nearest hospitals.

Brewery road has high security arrangements because of the Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University and its proximity to Hazara Town.

In June 2013 suicide attack on the bus carrying university students took place, which killed at least 14 students and injured many others.

Security in Karachi boosted

In the wake of a blast in Quetta, IG Sindh G H Jamali has put entire police force on red alert, directing officers to be more vigilant and to discharge duties according to Eid Contingency Plan.

Directions were also issued for deployment of police officials in plain-clothes at all public places and vital installations.

Jamali said that it was imperative that security is provided at all locations where Eidul Fitr congregation will be held.