At least five killed in cylinder explosion at Chaman home in Balochistan

At least five people, including children, were killed on Thursday when a cylinder exploded inside a house in Balochistan's Chaman, Express News reported. Rescue volunteers rushed to the scene, removing bodies from the rubble and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Security forces cordoned off the area as investigations began, according to local media reports. Authorities said the explosion was caused by a gas cylinder. Several children had gathered at the house to buy lassi for Iftar when the blast occurred. The explosion destroyed a significant portion of the residence, they added.  Also Read: Soldier martyred in Tank drone attack as three abducted brothers found dead in Bannu Separately, one police officer was martyred on Thursday when a police armoured vehicle was struck by a powerful explosion on the Quetta-Karachi National Highway near Al-Harameen Hotel in Surab district of Balochistan, police confirmed to The Express Tribune. Preliminary reports indicated that the explosive device had been planted under the road or a bridge and detonated as the vehicle passed. The blast severely damaged the armoured vehicle and caused partial damage to surrounding structures. Police and security forces promptly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the area and launching a comprehensive search operation. A bomb disposal squad collected evidence to determine the exact nature of the attack. Early investigations suggest it was a premeditated attack using an improvised explosive device (IED). The deceased officer, identified as Khalil Ahmed, a resident of Surab, was killed instantly. Eyewitnesses said the explosion rattled nearby shops and buildings, shattering glass and creating widespread panic. Read More: Indian statement on Balochistan attack confirms Pakistan's view of New Delhi's role: FO Due to security concerns, the Quetta-Karachi National Highway was temporarily closed to all traffic, causing long queues and disruptions. Authorities are arranging alternate routes for stranded commuters and transporters. Ahmed’s body was transferred to the DHQ Hospital in Surab for a post-mortem examination. His family has been offered condolences, and the provincial government confirmed that benefits designated for the families of martyrs will be provided. Officials said the attack is the latest in a series targeting security forces in Balochistan, highlighting the province’s ongoing instability. Operations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The Balochistan chief minister and the provincial police inspector general condemned the attack, vowing no leniency in the fight against terrorism. Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation and working to reopen the highway as soon as possible.

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