Eight army men among 15 martyred in Quetta blast

QUETTA: 15 people including security officials lost their lives and 25 others were injured in a blast targeting an army truck  in the provincial capital, military and government officials said on Saturday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), media wing of the army, confirmed a vehicle of security forces was targeted in the blast that martyred 15 people including seven citizens.

The ISPR said the vehicle deployed on security duty was targeted in the attack. It said the injured were taken to the Combined Military Hospital where some of them were in critical condition.

ISPR Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a Twitter post that Chief of the Army Staff has condemned the attack and termed it an attempt to mar the Independence Day Celebrations.

COAS condemns terrorist attack on Army truck in Quetta, an attempt to mar Indep Day festivity. Our resolve won't succumb to any challenge.

— Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) August 12, 2017

Balochistan Home Minister Sarfraz Bugti said it was a huge explosion that  targeted a vehicle of security forces. He said security operation at the blast site has been completed, but it would be premature to comment on the nature of the explosion.

But The Bomb Disposal Squad said the blast was carried out by a suicide bomber. 

Eyewitnesses said the blast was so intense that it shattered window panes of nearby buildings.

A large number of police, and paramilitary troops rushed to the area and helped rescuers shift the dead and injured to hospitals. Police placed a cordon around the area and were collecting evidence. 

A huge fire erupted after the explosion that engulfed four auto rickshaws, four cars and two motorbikes. Officials fear death toll my rise. An state of emergency has been declared in the hospitals of Quetta.

It is a developing story. Check back soon for updates.