Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat, a senior Balochistan official, confirmed that a Tuesday attack on a Balochistan National Party (BNP) rally in Quetta killed 15 people and injured 72 at Shahwani Stadium. Shafqaat told reporters that 23 of the injured are in serious condition.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti announced Rs1.5 million for each victim’s family, Rs500,000 for those seriously hurt, and Rs200,000 for minor injuries. Shafqaat said the explosion happened 500 meters from the rally site, about 45 minutes after it ended. The government had set up tight security with 112 personnel, and organisers were asked three times to end the event early, but it ran late.
❗️GRUESOME aftermath of suicide bombing at political rally in Quetta, Pakistan
Local media says blast targeted Balochistan National Party (BNP) chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal
11 killed, dozens injured pic.twitter.com/gtgsdHAtTE
— RT (@RT_com) September 2, 2025
Shafqaat stated that investigations are ongoing to find those behind the attack. “The blast was away from the main site. We will identify the culprits,” he said. He also noted 22 active threat alerts in Balochistan, blaming “enemy groups” for trying to cause chaos after losses in a recent conflict.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack, calling it proof of terrorists’ plans to disrupt Balochistan. He vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The Quetta attack highlights ongoing security challenges in Balochistan. The government’s response and compensation aim to support victims and restore calm.