ZHOB , May 19, 2023: A man was killed and six others were injured in a tragic incident of a suicide attack near Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Sirajul Haq’s cavalcade in Zhob on Friday.
According to police, Mr Haq remained safe during the blast. The JI chief was scheduled to deliver a speech in Zhob.
The sources divulged Mr Haq reached the police line safely, adding the JI’s convoy was entering Zhob from Quetta.
Mr Haq arrived in Quetta today and had to go further to Zhob where his political gathering was scheduled. JI spokesperson Faisal Sharif said in a video message that when he was entering Zhob and people were welcoming him, a person came and blew himself up.
Sources privy to the development said the body of the attacker was taken to the civil hospital, while six injured people were shifted to a hospital. Two children are among the injured.
– Condemnations –
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari condemned the explosion near Mr Haq’s cavalcade in Zhob, expressing good wishes for Mr Haq.
Mr Bhutto-Zardari directed immediate treatment of those injured in the blast. “The explosion near Sirajul Haq’s convoy should be immediately investigated,” he added.
Those responsible for the explosion should be brought to justice, he added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had strongly condemned the suicide attack on Mr Haq’s convoy. PM Shehbaz directed the authorities order to investigate the incident.
The premier prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and directed the concerned authorities to provide the best medical facilities to the injured.
Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo had expressed grief over the suicide blast. He said, “We are thankful to Allah, who protected the JI chief and his companions. “It is very unfortunate that people were injured in this incident.”
“The terrorists wanted to achieve their nefarious objectives by spreading fear and insecurity in the province. The militants and their patrons will not be allowed to succeed,” Mr Bizenjo maintained.
– Life and death are in the hands of Allah –
After escaping from the bomb blast in Zhob, Mr Haq said that life and death are in the hands of Allah.
Addressing a public gathering, Mr Haq said, “I am not afraid of death.” Stressing the need for education, Mr Haq said his party wants to see a country where every child gets an education.
“I wanted to see peace and prosperity in the country. So-called political leaders and generals ruled the country,” he maintained.
Highlighting the unemployment issues in the country, Mr Haq rued, “There is no employment for the youth. The country is witnessing an increase in unemployment.”
Mr Haq underscored the problems facing Balochistan, he said, “Unemployment is increasing in Balochistan, which is the largest province in terms of all types of minerals.”