Security forces defuse 8 IEDs on Quetta–Karachi highway, averting major attack

As per security sources, bombs hidden in drums weighed over 300 kg, capable of causing massive destruction

QUETTA:

Security forces defused eight improvised explosive devices (IEDs) discovered beneath a bridge on the Quetta–Karachi national highway in Balochistan’s Surab district on Sunday, officials said, averting a potential large-scale attack.

The explosives, concealed inside drums and weighing more than 300 kilograms in total, were recovered during an intelligence-based operation, according to security sources. 

“The explosives were hidden under the bridge in a highly concealed manner, indicating a significant destructive capacity,” a senior security official told The Express Tribune on condition of anonymity.

The devices were reportedly rigged with remote-control and other advanced detonation systems, posing a serious threat to passing traffic and civilians on the key highway linking Quetta to Karachi.

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Bomb disposal teams moved the explosives to a secure location and successfully neutralised them, officials said. No casualties or injuries were reported during the operation.

Authorities have increased security along the highway, while investigations are underway to identify those responsible and dismantle the network behind the attempted attack.

The Quetta–Karachi highway is a vital transport route in Balochistan and has previously been targeted in security-related incidents. Traffic on the highway has since resumed as normal, officials added.

Balochistan has been facing insurgency for years, with terrorists from the banned Balochistan Liberation Army terrorist group recently launching a terror attack at several sites, leaving dozens of citizens dead. In a counter-operation by security forces, 216 terrorists were killed, while 22 security personnel embraced martyrdom.