On Tuesday, a bomb exploded at a PTI rally in Balochistan’s Sibi, causing four deaths and injuring six. As confirmed by police and health officials.
Dr. Babar. The medical superintendent at the District Headquarters Hospital in Sibi said. “The incident occurred merely nine days before the February 8 general elections.”
Sibi Station House Officer (SHO) Zakaullah Gujjar reported transferring the injured individuals to the Civil Hospital. He mentioned that the condition of most of them was critical, expressing concerns about a potential increase in the death toll.
Gujjar stated that security forces quickly reached the blast site upon receiving the report and secured the area. He added, “A bomb disposal squad is collecting evidence from the crime scene.”
In another incident, PTI reported that the explosion happened at a campaign gathering organized by party-supported candidate Saddam Tareen. He is running in the upcoming elections from the NA-253 (Ziarat) constituency.
The statement reported that the PTI rally resulted in the loss of lives for three PTI members, with seven others sustaining injuries. Fortunately, Tareen himself escaped unharmed.
“We strongly condemn this heartbreaking incident and demand that attention should be given to suppressing terrorists instead of PTI workers,” the party said in a post on social media platform X.
In another message, the PTI called the event a “serious failure” by the provincial and federal governments. The party urged a thorough investigation into the incident and emphasized the need to probe the negligence of the overseeing authorities to hold those accountable.
The PTI also raised concerns about the absence of security for the rally, especially given the high alert status.
Meanwhile, the Health Secretary of Balochistan, Abdullah Khan Noorzai, declared an emergency at hospitals in Quetta and Sibi. The provincial health department issued a statement, directing the medical superintendent in Sibi to offer the best healthcare services to patients. All doctors and staff were instructed to be on duty promptly.
The statement mentioned that steps were taken to enhance hospital security for handling any unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, measures were initiated to collect medicines, medical equipment, lab essentials, and ensure an adequate supply of blood.
Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) notices issue, summons a report of Blast in PTI Rally
On X platform, the Election Commission of Pakistan acknowledged the incident and asked for a report from Balochistan’s chief secretary and police chief.
Meanwhile, Interim Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai stated, “Despite terrorist actions, the elections will proceed as planned.” He emphasized that the targeted PTI rally in Sibi won’t deter the Balochistan government from conducting elections. The minister acknowledged terrorists’ intentions to disrupt the electoral process but expressed confidence in the resilient people of Balochistan, expecting at least 50% participation in the voting on February 8. Achakzai extended condolences to the families affected by the tragic blast in Sibi.
Increase in Terror Attacks
Today’s incident occurred as Pakistan has seen an increase in terror activities, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Just a day ago, security forces thwarted three terror attacks in Mach, killing seven militants. A clearance operation is ongoing in the area, according to Achakzai.
On Sunday, an explosion outside a PTI-backed candidate’s residence injured two people. Malik Shah Muhammad Khan remained unharmed.
Earlier this month, former MNA Mohsin Dawar survived an armed attack on his convoy during an election rally in North Waziristan. JUI-F’s Qari Khairullah narrowly escaped a roadside bomb in Bajaur the same day.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar formed a high-level committee last week to oversee security for the upcoming general elections. The committee will ensure security arrangements and address administrative and coordination matters.
According to a security report, Pakistan recorded 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023, marking a six-year high. KP and Balochistan were the main centers of violence, with over 90% of fatalities and 84% of attacks.
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