Balochistan violence: Gas supplies suspended as pipeline blown up in Quetta

Two injured in Jaffarabad landmine explosion.

QUETTA:

Suspected saboteurs dynamited a gas pipeline in the Killi Mubarakzai area of Quetta on Sunday, suspending supplies to several neighbourhoods of the provincial capital.

According to official sources, saboteurs detonated an explosive device planted underneath the pipeline, ripping 1.4-foot portion.

As a result, gas supplies to parts of the city, including the areas of Cantt, Kelli Kezi, Liaquat Bazaar, Abdul Sattar Road, Fatima Jinnah Road, Masjid Road and Jinnah Road, were suspended for hours. However, the supplies were restored in some localities before Iftar.

A heavy contingent of security forces reached the spot and cordoned off the site. Later, a manhunt was launched for the culprits.

Engineers have started repairs to restore gas supply. “Complete restoration of supplies will take some time,” an official told The Express Tribune.

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Landmine blast

Meanwhile, at least two people were injured in a landmine explosion in Jaffarabad district on Sunday.

Two persons riding on a motorcycle – identified as Sher Khan Bugti and Altaf Bugti – hit a landmine in the RD 238 area.

The motorbike was destroyed in the blast. The injured were driven to a nearby hospital for treatment. Police have registered a case.

Separately, a man was gunned down in the Killi Sheikh Hasaani area of Quetta on Sunday.

According to sources, gunmen shot dead one Abdul Hameed Badini in front of his house near Mano Jan Road. The motive for the killing could not be ascertained.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 23^rd, 2012.