30 Jan 2024 | 03:32 PM UTC
Pakistan: Authorities responding to explosion on Jinnah Road in Sibi, Balochistan Province, late Jan. 30
Officials responding to explosion on Jinnah Road in Sibi, Pakistan, late Jan. 30 that leaves up to four killed and five injured. Avoid area.
Authorities are responding to an explosion on Jinnah Road in Sibi, Balochistan Province, late Jan. 30. Emerging sources indicate that the incident may have reportedly occurred due to an explosive device installed on a motorcycle and has left as many as four people killed and five others wounded. Officials have confirmed that the attack occurred while the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) party was holding a rally ahead of the Feb. 8 general elections. No further details were immediately available concerning the nature of the incident.
Officials have cordoned off the incident site and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the attack. Heightened security and associated localized transport disruptions are highly likely over the coming hours, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Associated lingering disruptions are possible. Further isolated security incidents, including small-scale explosions, cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the impacted area until officials issue the all-clear. Exercise a high degree of caution if operating in Balochistan Province. Allow additional travel time near the incident site. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
The Jan. 30 incident in Sibi underscores the heightened security challenges in the region. This event follows recent attacks in Mach Kachhi District, northwest of Sibi, where the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) targeted security facilities, resulting in casualties and control over National Highway 65. The BLA is a separatist militant group known for targeting security personnel and facilities. As of late Jan. 30, no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the incident in Sibi. The recent spate of attacks is likely to escalate in frequency, particularly in restive Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, in the lead-up to the Feb. 8 general elections.
