A powerful car bomb exploded near the Frontier Constabulary (FC) headquarters in Quetta on Tuesday, killing at least ten people and injuring more than thirty others.
The attack struck one of the most sensitive security compounds in the provincial capital, shattering windows, damaging vehicles, and sending shockwaves across the city.
According to officials, the explosion occurred when an explosive-laden vehicle pulled up near the main gate of the FC compound, on a road turning from Model Town toward Hali Road. CCTV footage showed the vehicle moments before a massive blast, followed by heavy gunfire. Witnesses reported chaos as people fled the scene while security personnel engaged the attackers.
Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed the casualty figures, adding that the injured were rushed to Civil Hospital, Balochistan Medical College, and the Trauma Centre. At least eight bodies were received at Civil Hospital soon after the attack. Emergency alerts were imposed across all major hospitals in Quetta, with medical staff ordered to remain on duty. Some of the wounded are said to be in critical condition.
The provincial government stated that four assailants were killed in the security operation that followed the blast. Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack as an act of terrorism, vowing that the perpetrators and their facilitators would be brought to justice.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. However, suspicion is likely to fall on separatist outfits active in Balochistan. Officials have not yet clarified whether the explosion was a suicide attack or triggered remotely.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but least developed province, has long grappled with insurgency and violence, with security forces often in the crosshairs. The province has witnessed a surge in deadly attacks in recent months. Earlier this month, a suicide bombing near Quetta killed 13 people, underscoring the volatile security landscape.
As investigations continue, authorities warn that the casualty toll could rise further. Security has been tightened across Quetta, with checkpoints reinforced and additional patrols deployed. The city remains on high alert as residents reel from one of the deadliest attacks in recent months.
This is a developing story.
News Sources: AP News, DAWN News, and Samaa News.
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