Deadly Terror Attack in Pakistan: Bomb Blast on Mine Workers’ Truck Kills 10

Islamabad (The Uttam Hindu): At least 10 people were killed and six others injured on Friday when a truck carrying coal mine workers exploded in the restive Balochistan's Harnai area.According to Harnai Deputy Commissioner Hazrat Wali Kakar, the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) at coal mine area 'PMDC 94' in Harnai's Shahrag district, The Dawn reported.

According to a statement by Balochistan government spokesman Shahid Rind, an investigation into the incident has been ordered. According to the statement, evidence is being collected and initial investigations suggest that explosive material was placed on the roadside. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the incident and expressed grief over the deaths. He directed that the injured workers be provided with the best medical facilities.

The Chief Minister said, "The terrorists who target innocent civilians do not deserve any kind of amnesty and strict action will continue against the elements harming the peace of Balochistan." Bugti said that the intentions of the enemies of peace will not be allowed to succeed under any circumstances. The terrorists involved in this incident will soon be brought to justice. Bugti said that the Balochistan government is taking all possible steps to protect the lives and property of the people.

Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan. It is considered extremely important geo-economically and geo-strategically, yet it remains turbulent. Recently, at least 18 soldiers of Pakistan's Frontier Corps (FC) were killed during an operation in Mangochar town located in Kalat district of Balochistan. Pakistan's military officials gave this information on Saturday.

A statement issued by the Pakistan Army's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said, "On the night of January 31/February 1, terrorists tried to block the road at Manochhar in Kalat district of Balochistan." "Security forces and law enforcement agencies were immediately activated and successfully foiled the nefarious design and killed 12 terrorists, ensuring the safety of the local population," the statement said. 18 soldiers were also killed during the operation, the statement said.