A suicide bomber targeted a passenger train in Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of at least 23 individuals and injuring approximately 70 others in a significant attack on Sunday morning.
This incident occurred in Quetta, the capital city of southwestern Balochistan province. As the train was passing, an explosives-laden vehicle detonated near the tracks, leading to the derailment of two train cars and igniting a fire. The area has a long-standing history of low-intensity insurgencies involving various separatist and extremist groups.
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group advocating for Balochistan’s independence from Pakistan, allegedly claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that it was aimed at a train carrying security forces.
Reports indicated that the train was transporting military personnel and their families traveling from Quetta to Peshawar for the Eid holidays. Meanwhile, the BLA asserted their intention of targeting security forces. This region is also noted for its heightened security presence.
The explosive blast reportedly reverberated throughout the vicinity. Witness testimonies and social media images revealed that the force of the explosion caused two train cars to overturn and erupt into flames, sending thick smoke into the air. Furthermore, nearby buildings and parked vehicles suffered considerable damage.
Emergency services transported several victims to local hospitals, with around 20 of the injured reported to be in critical condition.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the incident as a “despicable act of terrorism,” assuring that those responsible would face justice.
“I unequivocally denounce the atrocious blast near Chaman Fatak, Quetta, which resulted in tragic loss of innocent lives and injuries to numerous others. We must not allow such acts to undermine the resolve of the Pakistani people. We will remain committed to combating terrorism in all its forms,” he stated.
Sharif extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and expressed solidarity with the people of Balochistan during this sorrowful time.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti claimed that the attackers were backed by Indian proxies seeking to destabilize Pakistan. India has long denied such assertions, amidst an ongoing and contentious dispute over Kashmir between the two nations.
Bugti criticized the attackers, describing them as “barbarians” targeting innocent civilians, including women and children.
He further emphasized that there is no refuge left for terrorists in Balochistan, pledging to pursue the perpetrators and their supporters relentlessly until they are brought to justice.
According to the Times of India, the BLA has been increasingly conducting more extensive suicide attacks aimed at Pakistan’s security forces and infrastructure in Quetta. This is reminiscent of a suicide bombing in 2024 that resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, including military personnel.
