Balochistan: At least three people were killed and seven others injured as militants attacked a passenger bus in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province on Wednesday. The tragic incident occurred in Nemargh area, Kalat district of Balochistan, the provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind said in a statement, noting that the passenger coach was coming from Karachi city to Quetta.
According to Kuwait News Agency, "Based on initial info, terrorists were sitting in ambush, they stopped the bus and then attacked," Rind said. "We cannot confirm the number of terrorists, but it was carried out from both sides of the road," he added. The injured were rushed to the nearest government run District Headquarters hospital where an emergency was imposed. "Security agencies, district administration and rescue teams immediately reached the scene. Security forces have surrounded the area, and a search operation is underway. Security forces are pursuing the attackers," said the spokesperson.
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari ordered the provision of immediate and the best medical services to the injured. In a statement, the President said, "Targeting innocent civilians is an extremely cruel and condemnable act." "Terrorists aim to sabotage peace and stability; they are enemies of humanity and peace. With the support of the nation, we will completely eradicate the scourge of terrorism. The state will continue to take action against terrorism with full force," he added. Earlier last week, at least nine passengers travelling on a bus were abducted and killed by unidentified armed men in Zhob district of Balochistan.
The attacks come at a time when Pakistan is witnessing a rise in terror attacks especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Balochistan provinces bordering Afghanistan.