Pakistan: Multiple suicide bombings in Quetta April 24

Event

Military officials confirmed that multiple suicide bombers attacked two security positions in Quetta (Balochistan province) on Tuesday, April 24. The first attack took place near the Frontier Corps (FC) camp in the Mian Ghundi area near the Western Bypass. Two bombers attempted to infiltrate the base but were killed by guards. At least eight FC personnel were wounded in the attack. Shortly after the first assault, another suicide bomber detonated a device near a police van on Airport Road, killing at least six officers. Another seven police officers were also wounded in the blast.

Context

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks as of Tuesday evening (local time). The threat of terrorism and sectarian violence has been high throughout Pakistan in recent years, with the main threat coming from Tehrik-e Taleban Pakistan (TTP). Government personnel, government institutions, and security forces, including police, are often targeted. Places of worship are also frequently targeted in attacks.

Advice

Individuals in Quetta are advised to avoid the blast areas and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.

As a reminder, many Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the vast majority of the country, including Quetta, with the exception of the capital Islamabad and the area between the capital and the cities of Lahore and Faisalabad.