Introduction
Violent bombing struck Anarkali bazar on Thursday in Lahore, killing at least two people and wounding 26, police and rescue officials said. A newly formed separatist group from southwestern Baluchistan province claimed responsibility for the attack.
Investigation Details
Initially, the incident that took place at 1:45 pm, was called a cylinder blast by police and other agencies but further investigation revealed that the explosion was that of a planted device. The police said the device weighing 1.5kg might be an IED (improvised explosive device) that also created one and a half foot deep crater. Lahore Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Dr Abid Khan said the explosive material was planted under a cart or on a motorbike that were found completely damaged at the site. Investigation revealed three suspects, one placing the bag seemingly full of explosives, and two others coordinating with each other, both were identified.
Who was behind the attack?
The blast was later claimed by Baloch Nationalist Army (BNA) on twitter. “We accept the responsibility for targeting the bank in Anarkali Bazaar Lahore. This attack targeted bank employees. A detailed statement will be issued soon,” BNA spokesman Mureed Baloch said in a tweet.
The deceased were identified as Absar, 9, Ramzan, 30, of Ferozwala, and Yasar, 18. Absar was with his parents when the blast occurred. All prayers with the victims and their families.
What Government Officials Had To Say
Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed regret over the loss of precious human lives in the blast. He ordered provision of best medical treatment to the injured. He also sought a report from the Punjab government.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar expressed grief and said, “This incident is aimed at sabotaging the atmosphere of law and order. Those responsible for the blast will not be able to escape the clutches of the law,”
