A blast occurred in Mastung, Balochistan, killing seven people, including five schoolchildren, one police officer, and a passer-by. The explosion happened near the Girls High School at Civil Hospital Chowk, targeting a police vehicle. Initially, five fatalities were reported, but two more victims died from their injuries at the hospital, raising the total death toll to seven, as confirmed by DHQ Medical Superintendent Nisar Ahmad Baloch.
Currently, 30 people are being treated for injuries at DHQ and Nawab Hospital in Mastung, with most of them being schoolchildren. Sub-Divisional Police Officer Miandad Umrani stated that the blast was caused by a remote-controlled explosive device planted in a motorcycle. The ages of the deceased schoolchildren, both boys and girls, ranged from 10 to 13 years old, and four policemen were among the injured.
Emergency services were activated in both hospitals following the attack. Mastung Deputy Commissioner Mir Baaz Khan Marri announced that all hospitals in Quetta, including the Civil Hospital, BMC Hospital, and Trauma Centre, were put on high alert. The provincial health department indicated that all medical staff, including doctors and nurses, were called in to help.
Initially, police reported around 15 people injured in the attack, which also severely damaged the police vehicle and several nearby vehicles, including rickshaws. Among the injured, nine individuals were transported to the Trauma Center in Quetta, with three in critical condition.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the attack and expressed sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, offering condolences to the families of the victims. He emphasized that terrorists have now targeted children and innocent workers, vowing to seek justice for the victims. Bugti called for local communities to help keep an eye on terrorist activities, stating that fighting terrorism requires collective efforts.
Acting President and Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani also expressed his grief over the incident, condemning the actions of the terrorists. He emphasized that these groups pose a threat to humanity and assured that the nation stands united with security forces in the fight against terrorism.