Quetta, Pakistan — Thursday’s attack on a Balochistan Constabulary convoy resulted in one security personnel being killed and three more being injured – in what authorities are characterizing as targeted violence against law enforcement in this volatile province.
The incident took place in Sibi District in Balochistan when an IED detonated near a patrol route and detonated, striking an explosion upon passing by. Initial reports indicate that this convoy may have been returning from security deployment when attacked.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that one constable was killed due to the intensity of the blast while three others sustained critical injuries, who were airlifted for treatment at Quetta’s Combined Military Hospital (CMH).
Constable Khalid Mehmood of Khuzdar was identified as the officer killed and his funeral prayers were conducted with full military honors at Balochistan Constabulary Headquarters with senior security officials and local government representatives in attendance.
Home Minister Ziaullah Langove strongly condemned the attack and pledged that those responsible will be held to justice. Langove noted, in a press statement: “This cowardly act represents an attack against our peace and security as well as on one of our brave soldiers who died while fulfilling his duty, thus the sacrifices made by our security forces will not go in vain.”
No group has claimed responsibility for this attack so far, although the region has long been plagued by separatist insurgents, militants, and banned outfits who target security forces, development workers, critical infrastructure, as well as IEDs as a method of disrupting peace and instilling fear.
Security forces immediately launched a search and clearance operation following the explosion, with heavy contingents of police and Frontier Corps personnel cordoning off the area and conducting house-by-house searches in an effort to locate suspects.
An intelligence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated there had been prior signs of increased militant activity in the Sibi belt region. He further added, “This attack appears planned; we are following multiple leads and have detained several suspects for questioning,” before concluding their statement by noting there have been prior indications.
This attack elicited widespread condemnation across the country, with leaders of major political parties and civil society organizations demanding increased protection for law enforcement officials operating in high-risk areas.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over this tragic event and offered condolences to the grieving family of those lost. Our forces are an integral component of national security; together we honor their service and sacrifice,” he wrote on social media.
Balochistan has seen an upsurge in violence despite intensified counterterrorism efforts and security crackdowns, according to analysts. They warn that such attacks aim to stop development efforts within Balochistan province – specifically projects related to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
As investigations proceed, Pakistanis mourn the loss of another brave soul serving their nation while security forces pledge their resolve against any threats to Pakistan’s stability.