Suicide blast in Pakistan’s Balochistan province kills 52

Attack comes at a time when Pakistan is already grappling with a series of security challenges

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – At least 52 people were killed and 114 injured in a suicide blast that targeted a procession in Mastung district of Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Friday.

The explosion occurred near the Madina Masjid on Alfalah Road as people gathered for the procession to mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

The bomber detonated close to the deputy superintendent of police’s vehicle.

The blast was so powerful that it destroyed several vehicles and shops nearby.

Unconfirmed footage depicted the gruesome aftermath of the attack, with bodies and debris scattered all over the road.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but authorities believe that it could be the work of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant outfit that has been carrying out attacks in the region for years.

The provincial government declared three days of mourning and announced compensation for the families of the victims.

President Dr. Arif Alvi and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of lives and directed the authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured.

The attack comes at a time when Pakistan is already grappling with a series of security challenges.

Earlier this month, an explosion in the same district injured 11 people.

In May this year, unidentified attackers targeted a polio vaccination team in the Killi Sour Karez area in the region.

The Pakistani army has launched an operation to hunt down the perpetrators of the attack and prevent future incidents.

Security has been heightened across the country in response.

The attack on the procession has been widely condemned by leaders and organizations from all over the world. They have called for unity against terrorism and for the attackers to be brought to justice.