Quetta Blast Near FC Headquarters Kills 13 Injures 32 People

A massive explosion struck Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving at least 13 people dead and 32 injured. The blast occurred near the Frontier Constabulary (FC) Headquarters on Zarghun Road, one of the busiest streets in the city, causing widespread panic and fear among residents.

Explosion Triggered by Vehicle Laden with Explosives

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

According to local authorities, the explosion was caused by a vehicle carrying explosives. The vehicle reportedly turned from Model Town towards Hali Road, close to the FC headquarters, before detonating. The blast was powerful enough to shatter the windows of nearby homes and buildings, and the sound was heard across the surrounding areas.

Residents described scenes of chaos as they rushed to shelter children and family members. Shops and businesses in the vicinity closed immediately, and streets were evacuated as the smoke and debris settled.

Gunfire Reported After Explosion

Adding to the terror, gunfire was reported shortly after the blast. Residents shared harrowing accounts of panic and confusion. Social media videos and CCTV footage captured the moment of the explosion, showing cars and motorcycles being thrown by the force of the blast, with people running in all directions to escape harm.

Emergency Response and Medical Assistance

Rescue teams, police, and emergency services were quickly dispatched to the site. Authorities cordoned off the area to ensure safety and prevent further casualties. Hospitals across Quetta, including the Civil Hospital and Trauma Centre, were placed on high alert to treat the injured.

Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed that five people died instantly, while another five succumbed to their injuries during treatment. Later reports indicated that the death toll had risen to 13. Among the injured, at least two FC personnel were affected, reflecting the risks faced by security forces during such attacks.

Investigation Underway

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Special Operations Quetta, Muhammad Baloch, confirmed that the vehicle involved was loaded with explosives. Authorities have launched a thorough investigation to determine the perpetrators, their motives, and whether the attack was part of a larger plan.

Officials are reviewing CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence to piece together the sequence of events. Local law enforcement agencies are also coordinating with national security agencies to ensure that any remaining threats are neutralized.

Public Safety Concerns

The explosion has reignited concerns over security in Quetta, especially around sensitive government and law enforcement buildings. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid crowded areas or major roads until the investigation concludes.

Security checkpoints have been increased, and police patrols have intensified in strategic areas to prevent further incidents. Emergency services continue to monitor the situation and provide medical and logistical support to affected families.

Eyewitness Accounts

Residents described the scene as terrifying. “The blast shook the ground like an earthquake. We were hiding under tables and rushing to protect our children,” said one witness. Another local added, “Gunshots followed the explosion, and people were screaming everywhere. It was chaos.”

Such accounts underline the fear and disruption caused by the attack, highlighting the urgent need for stronger preventive measures.

Need for Stronger Security Measures

This tragic incident emphasizes the pressing requirement for improved security protocols, better intelligence-sharing among law enforcement agencies, and rapid response capabilities. Analysts say that attacks like these not only endanger civilians but also test the readiness of security forces in Balochistan, a province that has faced repeated militant and terrorist threats over the years.

Authorities are now reviewing security arrangements near FC buildings, government offices, and other public spaces to prevent such attacks in the future.

The deadly blast in Quetta is a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan. While emergency teams continue to assist the injured and investigate the incident, officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant and cautious in the coming days.

The government and law enforcement agencies have pledged to bring the attackers to justice while working to strengthen measures to protect civilians and personnel stationed in high-risk areas.