At least five people were killed and three others injured in an explosion on Thursday near a taxi stand in the refugee camp area of Chaman, close to the Pak-Afghan border.
Chaman Deputy Commissioner Habib Bangalzai told Express News that the blast occurred in the parking area of a taxi stand near the border, where cars belonging to Afghan immigrants and locals were parked.
He stated that five people were killed on the spot, while three injured individuals were transported to a government hospital in Chaman, where an emergency was declared.
Bangalzai added that the bomb disposal squad was collecting evidence to determine the cause of the incident. According to initial investigations, the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was concealed in the baggage of travelers.
Sources at Chaman Hospital said the condition of the injured is critical, and efforts are underway to identify the deceased.
Emergency responders, including the Levies Force, Frontier Corps (FC), and other security personnel, quickly reached the site and cordoned off the area. Ambulances from nearby government hospitals were dispatched to transport the deceased and injured to medical facilities.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti directed law enforcement agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation and submit a detailed report at the earliest.
According to the Balochistan Home Department, the blast site has been sealed off, with specialised forensic teams currently collecting evidence. While the exact nature of the explosion is under investigation, police sources have indicated that initial findings suggest it was a suicide bombing.
The Home Department has urged citizens to remain calm, avoid sharing unverified information or rumors, and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies. In response to the incident, security has been further tightened along the Pak-Afghan border.
PM condemns blast
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the blast in Chaman, vowing that the perpetrators of the heinous crime will be brought to justice, according to a statement issued by the PM's Office.
Expressing deep sorrow and grief over the tragic loss of six precious lives in the incident, Shehbaz offered prayers for the departed souls. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and directed authorities to ensure the provision of the best possible medical care to the victims.
Furthermore, the PM ordered a thorough investigation to identify those responsible for the attack and called for strict action to ensure they receive exemplary punishment.
Addressing the ongoing unrest in Balochistan, he stated that those spreading militancy in the province are enemies of its development and prosperity. He vowed that the nefarious objectives of these elements would never be allowed to succeed.
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