Pakistan: Increased security likely in Mastung District, Balochistan Province, following Sept. 14 explosion on Mastung Bypass Road

Event

Authorities will almost certainly maintain an increased security presence in the Mastung District of Balochistan Province over the coming days following an explosion that occurred on the Mastung Bypass Road Sept. 14. Unidentified assailants reportedly targeted a moving vehicle with several people, including a Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) party leader, along the thoroughfare; the incident has left at least 11 people injured. The passengers were traveling from Quetta to Kalat. No group has as yet claimed responsibility for the incident.

Authorities have cordoned off the affected area and may launch a security operation in search of the assailants. Strict security measures will probably remain in place for several days if an operation unfolds. Authorities may impose localized travel restrictions or curfews. Additional attacks cannot be ruled out.

Context

There is a high threat of terrorism across Pakistan. The latest Sept. 14 incident does not necessarily indicate an elevated threat risk, which remains significant in Balochistan Province. Domestic reports suggest the so-called Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) has repeatedly targeted several local leaders of JUI-F in parts of the Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

The IS-K typically targets local leaders and Pakistani security forces by employing small-scale bombings in the remote areas of the two provinces. Potential target sites include moving vehicles along motorways, places of worship, crowded markets, transport hubs, and government and diplomatic buildings. Large attacks involving mass casualties are unlikely in major cities, but cannot be ruled out. Any attacks involving civilian casualties may prompt demonstrations, such as roadblocks, shutdown strikes, and sit-ins. Localized transport and business disruptions, as well as skirmishes, may occur during such protests.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution if operating in the affected area. Plan accordingly for localized transport and business disruptions. Carry proper identification documents when traveling in the affected areas. Heed all official transport and security advisories.