Balochistan: IED Explosion Reported in Sibi, Area Secured by Authorities

Explosion Shakes Busy Area in Sibi

SIBI: At least one person was killed and five others injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a busy area of Sibi in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province late Thursday night, police confirmed.

According to officials from the District Police Officer’s office, the blast occurred near Chainak Chowk, a populated commercial area of the city. Initial investigations revealed that an improvised explosive device (IED) was planted with the apparent intention of targeting civilians.

Emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals, where some victims were reported to be in critical condition.

Security Forces Launch Search Operation

Following the explosion, police and security agencies swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a comprehensive search and clearance operation. Bomb disposal squads were called in to ensure no additional explosives were present, while investigators began collecting forensic evidence from the blast site.

So far, no militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities say investigations are ongoing to identify those behind the incident.

Balochistan Faces Rising Militancy

The attack adds to a worrying trend of increasing militant violence across Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In recent years, these regions have seen a spike in bombings, targeted attacks, and assaults on security forces and civilians alike.

Despite being Pakistan’s largest province by area and rich in natural resources, Balochistan remains its most underdeveloped. Long-standing grievances over political representation, economic neglect, and control of local resources have fueled a low-intensity insurgency by separatist groups.

Strategic Importance Raises Security Concerns

Balochistan also holds strategic significance due to its central role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project linking China’s Xinjiang region to the Arabian Sea through Gwadar port.

Repeated attacks in the province continue to raise concerns over regional security, civilian safety, and the protection of major development projects.

Authorities have assured residents that security measures will be further strengthened to prevent future incidents.