Blast in Pakistani market kills 4: Reports

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
26 Feb 15:50

A powerful explosion rocks the heart of a Pakistani market killing four and injuring dozens.

Paramilitary soldiers arrive at the incident site following gunmen attack on police headquarters, in Karachi, Pakistan, Friday, Feb. 17, 2023. (AP)

Four people were killed on Sunday morning and more than a dozen others were wounded in a blast thought to have been caused by an improvised explosive device at a market in western Pakistan, according to media reports.

Explosives were placed on a motorcycle and detonated at the Rakhni Bazaar in Barkhan, Balochistan province, Pakistani broadcaster GEO TV revealed, citing local police.

Reports reveal that the blast was so powerful that it damaged neighboring shops and cars. "Four people were killed. Those injured were taken to the nearest hospital," Barkhan police officer Sajjad Afzal was quoted as saying.

The number of persons injured by the blast ranges from 10 to 14, according to local media reports. Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the explosion and directed authorities to take all feasible measures to apprehend those responsible.

"Those who shed the blood of innocent people are enemies of humanity. Terrorists are creating uncertainty to achieve their evil goals. But we will not allow anti-state elements to succeed," the minister said on Twitter, promising that the government will adopt an effective counterterrorism strategy.

Local security forces cordoned off the area and halted traffic after the incident to gather evidence, According to media accounts.

Balochistan province has allegedly seen an increase in violent incidents, including bombings and targeted attacks in recent months, prompting heightened security measures and public safety concerns.