Pakistan's Khuzdar rocked by suicide attack, 17 killed in clash

At least 17 people, including security personnel, were killed and more than two dozen others injured in a suicide attack targeting the residence of Shafiqur Rehman Mengal in Khuzdar, Pakistan's Balochistan province, officials said.

Mengal, president of the Jhalawan Panel and a leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), escaped unharmed in the attack, which took place on July 8 afternoon, Dawn reports.

According to security sources, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the main gate of Mengal's residence near Shahzad Town in Khuzdar city, destroying the gate, part of the boundary wall, and a large section of the building.

A series of explosions followed the initial blast, with reports of detonations heard across a wide area. The explosions damaged windows and doors of several nearby buildings.

A gun battle between the attackers and security forces continued for more than three hours, with heavy weapons, including rocket launchers and grenades, reportedly used during the confrontation.

An official speaking on condition of anonymity said that at least 17 people, including Mengal's security guards, were killed and around 30 others injured. The official added that five attackers, including suicide bombers, were also killed during the exchange of fire.

Eyewitnesses said the armed clash continued for several hours, involving rockets, grenades, and other heavy weapons.

Nadeemur Rehman, spokesman and general secretary of the Jhalawan Panel, confirmed the attack on Mengal's residence, saying that more than a dozen casualties were reported in the explosions and subsequent gunfight.

"Shafiq Mengal remained unharmed in the attack and is safe," Rehman said, adding that several people were injured in the blasts and the ensuing firefight.

Police sources said the explosions in Khuzdar city were caused by a suicide bombing. Security forces arrived at the scene shortly after the attack and sealed off the area.

Rescue teams transported the injured to Khuzdar Teaching Hospital and Combined Military Hospital (CMH), where emergency measures were put in place following the blasts and gunfight.

Authorities said security forces had launched a search operation in the area, while security measures across Khuzdar city were tightened with additional personnel deployed.

The banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack on Mengal's residence.

By Vafa Guliyeva