Quetta, February 14, 2025: At least 10 coal mine workers were killed and six others injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Balochistan’s Harnai district on Friday, officials confirmed.
According to Harnai Deputy Commissioner Hazrat Wali Kakar, the explosion struck a pickup truck transporting mine workers in the Coal Mines Area PMDC 94 in Shahrag. The deceased and injured were transported to the Shahrag Basic Health Unit for medical assistance.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. Law enforcement agencies have reached the site, and an investigation has been ordered, said Balochistan Government Spokesperson Shahid Rind. Initial findings suggest that the explosive device was planted on the roadside.
Identity documents indicate that the deceased miners hailed from Shangla district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a fact confirmed by KP Coalmine Workers Federation’s General Secretary, Ali Bash Khan.
Maqsood Ahmad, the uncle of one of the victims, Iqbal Hussain, shared that their family was keeping the news hidden from other members until his body arrived in Shangla’s Lilownai. He described Hussain as a hardworking man who had left for work two months ago to support his family.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating terrorism. The prime minister directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti called the attack an unforgivable act of terror and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice. He reiterated the government’s resolve to maintain peace in the province.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack, stating that those who target innocent civilians deserve no leniency.
Opposition Leader in the KP Assembly, Ibadullah Khan, reached out to Balochistan’s chief minister and key officials, urging them to provide medical care to the injured. CM Bugti assured full support.
Authorities have vowed to take strict action against the perpetrators and strengthen security measures to prevent future attacks.
