Pakistan: Deadly Suicide Bombing in Quetta Kills 17, Injures Dozens at Memorial Event

Pakistan: Deadly Suicide Bombing in Quetta Kills 17, Injures Dozens at Memorial Event
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A suicide bombing in Quetta, the capital of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, killed at least 17 people and injured more than 36 during a memorial gathering on Tuesday, officials confirmed, Khaama Press reported. The attack took place near Shaheed Shuhada Stadium in the Shahwani area, where hundreds had gathered to mark the death anniversary of Baloch leader Attaullah Mengal.

According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber detonated explosives near the entrance, causing widespread panic and casualties. Security forces quickly secured the area. Several prominent politicians, including Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party, and Sardar Akhtar Mengal, head of the Balochistan National Party, were present but unharmed.

Rescue teams transported the injured to Civil Hospital Quetta, which declared a state of emergency. Medical officials warned some victims remain in critical condition, raising concerns over a possible rise in fatalities. No group has claimed responsibility for the bombing, though such attacks in Balochistan are often attributed to separatist or extremist factions.

The province has long struggled with insurgency, sectarian violence, and political instability. The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting calls for enhanced counter-terrorism efforts to protect public and political events.