QUETTA: Project manager of the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) was killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast targeting his vehicle in Quetta on Sunday, according to the police.
Quetta Senior Superintendent of Police (Operations) Jawad Tariq confirmed the incident, saying the deceased was identified as Shabat Mirza, project manager PMDC.
He informed the PMDC officer was heading towards to Sor Range in a car along with his driver Muhammad Zakir, when the IED exploded. Resultantly, Mirza was killed on the spot while the driver sustained critical injuries and was immediately taken to Quetta Civil Hospital Trauma Centre.
“According to initial investigation, explosives were fitted on the roadside,” the police official stated, adding that the Counter-Terrorism Department had cordoned off the blast site and started collecting evidence.
Sor Range is located in a mountainous region, Tariq said, adding that CTD officials were also questioning locals for further information.
Today’s blast comes amid a recent uptick in acts of terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Last month, at least 59 people were killed in a deadly suicide bombing at a procession celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on 12 Rabiul Awwal in Mastung.
Following the ghastly attack, the Balochistan government had announced an “all-out war” against terrorists in the province.
Foolproof security arrangements at churches
Meanwhile, the Punjab police have been put alert to maintain law and order during prayer ceremonies of the Christian community across the province.
According to details, a prayer program has been organized in the churches across Punjab province. The security has been put on alert at the directions of the Inspector General of Punjab, Usman Anwar.
IG Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, has said that the Special Protection Unit (SPU), and supervisory officers of churches have reviewed the security arrangments.
Usman Anwar has also directed to depute additional police personnel and snipers around sensitive churches.
Dr. Usman Anwar stated that the Dolphin Squad, PRU (Punjab Riot Unit), and elite teams should conduct effective patrolling around Garhiaghars.
Police officers and personnel should remain extremely alert, keep a close eye on undesirable elements, and promote interfaith harmony among scholars, Christian community members, and members of peace committees.
