Security forces foiled a major terrorist attack in Quetta on Tuesday, killing eight militants, including a suicide bomber, who attempted to storm the Frontier Constabulary (FC) headquarters disguised in FC uniforms.
According to security officials, the attackers arrived in a Suzuki vehicle laden with explosives and detonated it at the entrance of the FC headquarters near Zarghoon Road. Following the blast, militants in a white van tried to force their way into the compound but were swiftly engaged by FC personnel. All eight attackers were shot dead in the gun battle, though two FC soldiers sustained injuries.
Provincial Health Minister Bakhth Muhammad Kakar confirmed that 10 civilians were killed and at least 32 others injured, with five in critical condition. The wounded were shifted to Civil Hospital Quetta, Bolan Medical College Hospital, and Trauma Centre, where emergency has been declared.
The powerful explosion shattered windows and doors of nearby buildings, spreading panic among residents and shopkeepers in the area. Eyewitnesses reported heavy gunfire following the blast, while videos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the attack site.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Special Operations) Muhammad Baloch said the attack occurred when the explosives-laden vehicle approached from Model Town towards Hali Road and rammed into the FC compound gate.
Law enforcement agencies immediately cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. Additional contingents were deployed to secure the city.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the FC personnel for their “swift and courageous action” in eliminating the attackers, whom he described as “Indian-backed terrorists.” He expressed grief over the loss of civilian lives, prayed for the recovery of the injured, and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to crush terrorism.
“The enemies of Pakistan will never succeed in their nefarious designs. The blood of innocent citizens will not go in vain,” the premier said in a statement.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti also strongly condemned the attack, lauding security forces for preventing what could have been a much larger tragedy. “The terrorists cannot weaken our national resolve through cowardly acts. The sacrifices of our people and security forces will not be wasted,” he said.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi hailed the FC soldiers for their professionalism, stating that the attackers were sent “to hell before they could inflict mass casualties.”
Investigations are underway, while hospitals in Quetta remain on high alert.
