A series of devastating explosions have rocked two provinces in Pakistan today, resulting in a significant loss of life and numerous injuries. The tragic events unfolded as follows:
In a suspected suicide blast that shook the Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan, at least 52 people have lost their lives, and approximately 50 others have been injured. The incident occurred in Mastung district near Madina Mosque on Al Falah Road. Devotees had gathered at the mosque to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, as part of the Eid Miladun Nabi celebrations. Tragically, the explosion took place during a procession, and among the victims was Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nawaz Gashkori, who was killed when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive device near his on-duty vehicle.
Hours later, in Pakistan’s restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a suicide blast occurred inside a mosque during Juma prayers. This second blast resulted in at least three fatalities and left six others injured. Preliminary reports suggest that 30 to 40 worshippers were present in the mosque at the time of the explosion, and authorities suspect it to be another suicide attack.
In response to these tragic incidents, security measures have been significantly heightened in major cities across Pakistan. Karachi police have announced via Twitter that they have increased security measures in light of the blasts.
The nation mourns the loss of innocent lives and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured in these horrifying attacks. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing as authorities work to determine the motives and perpetrators behind these acts of violence.
According to a comprehensive report by Al Jazeera, the twin blasts that rocked Pakistan today have left the nation in shock and mourning as details of the tragic events continue to emerge.
Eyewitness Account by Sarfaraz Ahmed Sasoli:
Sarfaraz Ahmed Sasoli, who witnessed the explosion in Mastung, shared his harrowing experience with Al Jazeera. He stated, “I was on security duty for the procession outside the Madina Mosque. We were preparing for the Prophet’s birthday procession when a suicide bomber blew himself up near the stage where our chief guests were sitting. My two brothers were injured in the blast, and we have shifted more than 100 injured to Quetta for treatment.” Sasoli’s firsthand account underscores the immediate and devastating impact of the explosion on innocent bystanders.
Analysis by Amir Rana, Director of Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies:
Amir Rana, the director of the Islamabad-based research organization Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies, provided expert analysis to Al Jazeera. He suggested that both incidents appear to be the work of ISIL (ISIS). Rana highlighted a significant aspect of the attacks, noting that while the Islamic State Khorasan Province primarily operates from the Peshawar region in Pakistan or Afghanistan, the Islamic State Pakistan Province is based out of Balochistan. He speculated that this may be the first time they coordinated for twin attacks, marking a concerning escalation in their operational capabilities. Rana warned that such incidents challenge the state’s command and pose a substantial threat to national security.
