In recent news, at least 24 lives were tragically lost with 50 others left wounded as two separate explosions rocked Balochistan on Wednesday, a day before the general elections in Pakistan.
The first devastating attack, claiming a dozen lives and injuring 25, occurred outside the office of an independent candidate in Balochistan’s Pishin district. The second blast struck outside the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) office in the Killa Saifullah district.
The independent target
The initial explosion targeted the political office of independent candidate Asfand Yar Khan Kakar in the Khanozai area. The candidate is vying for seats in the National Assembly (NA-265) and Balochistan Assembly (PB-47 and PB-48) constituencies.
The injured were rushed to Tehsil Hospital Khanozai where the Medical Superintendent, Dr. Habib, reported many to be in critical condition. Emergency measures were promptly activated across hospitals with additional medical staff summoned to assist.
ECP takes notice
— Spokesperson ECP (@SpokespersonECP) February 7, 2024
Notably, the independent candidate was fortunately absent from his office during the blast. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) swiftly reacted and summoned reports from the Balochistan chief secretary. A detailed report is asked of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), issuing directives to take firm action against those responsible.
Also read: 9 People, Including 3 Children Severely Injured In Quetta Blast
Kakar, speaking to a local news outlet, described the blast as occurring from a motorcycle parked outside his election office. Further shedding light on the grim reality of election-related violence that continues to haunt Pakistan.
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