Multiple bombings during Friday prayers leave scores dead and many injured in Pakistan.
In a devastating turn of events, Pakistan’s provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were rocked by suicide blasts during Friday’s prayers, resulting in the loss of at least 56 lives and leaving numerous others wounded.
Balochistan’s Tragic Day
The day began with a horrifying blast in the restive province of Balochistan, where a suicide bomber targeted a crowded mosque during the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. This tragic explosion claimed the lives of at least 52 people and left dozens more injured. The attack occurred near Madina Mosque on Al Falah in Mastung, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Quetta, the provincial capital.
Details emerging from the scene reveal that the blast took place as worshippers from neighborhood mosques gathered at a meeting point. Among the casualties was Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nawaz Gashkori, who was on duty for the rally. City Station House Officer (SHO) Mohammad Javed Lehri confirmed that this was a “suicide blast,” with the bomber detonating himself next to DSP’s car. Notably, this tragic incident unfolded on the occasion of Eid Miladun Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for this appalling attack. The explosion followed closely on the heels of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) eliminating a key Islamic State (ISIS) commander in the Mastung district.
Double Tragedy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
As the nation grappled with the shock of the Balochistan blast, another tragedy struck in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu city. Here, two consecutive blasts unfolded, resulting in the loss of at least four lives and injuries to five others. The suspected suicide bombings occurred at a police station in the Hangu district.
The initial blast targeted the entrance of a police station, drawing a crowd of onlookers. Tragically, moments later, a second explosion occurred inside a mosque located within the police station’s premises. The blasts transpired during the Juma prayer, a holy congregational Friday prayer. At the time of the explosion, approximately 30 to 40 worshippers were present in the mosque. Authorities have reason to believe this was also a suicide blast. As with the Balochistan attack, no group has come forward to claim responsibility for this act of violence.
These harrowing incidents have sent shockwaves through Pakistan, leaving the nation in mourning. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are working tirelessly to piece together the events leading up to these tragic bombings.
