QUETTA: At least four people were martyred and more than 20 injured in a powerful blast that struck Gulistan Bazaar in Killa Abdullah district on Sunday. The explosion occurred near Jabbar Market, causing fires and the collapse of several shops, according to local officials.
Deputy Commissioner Riaz Khan confirmed the casualties and said the market was situated close to the rear wall of the Frontier Corps (FC) Fort. A brief exchange of fire followed the blast as unidentified attackers clashed with FC personnel.
Among the injured was the security guard of tribal elder Haji Faizullah Khan Ghabizai, whose office is located in the same market. The elder was present at the time but escaped unharmed.
The injured were taken to local hospitals, with those in critical condition shifted to Quetta. Law enforcement agencies cordoned off the area and launched a search and clearance operation.
The incident comes days after four Levies personnel were killed in a separate armed attack at a check post in the Nal area of Khuzdar district. Officials have pledged to bring those responsible to justice and maintain order in the region.
