Pakistan: Explosion reported in Quetta May 13

Event

An explosive device detonated near a market in the Satellite Town area of Quetta (Balochistan province) on the evening (local time) of Monday, May 13. According to initial reports, at least seven security personnel were wounded in the incident; officials believe a police vehicle was targeted by the blast. Authorities have cordoned off the area and a heightened security presence is to be expected near the blast site over the coming hours. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing.

Context

The May 13 attack took place in a predominantly Shi'a area of Quetta.

Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Al-Qai'da, Islamic State (IS) affiliates, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Afghan Taliban, and other Islamist militant groups continue to pose a threat throughout the country despite continued army offensives to push them from their strongholds near the Afghan border. Pakistan has suffered numerous deadly attacks in recent months, notably in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces.

Advice

Individuals in Quetta are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity, report suspicious objects and behavior to the police, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.