A devastating car bomb exploded on Tuesday in a busy street outside the Frontier Constabulary (FC) headquarters, leaving at least eight people dead and over 19 injured, according to officials. Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed the casualties and cautioned that the numbers might rise.

The blast occurred near the FC compound on Zarghun Road and was felt across Model Town and neighboring sectors. Residents said the shockwave shattered windows across homes and storefronts, and gunfire erupted in the aftermath, adding to the terror.

Rescue Teams Arrive on the Spot

Rescue teams, police, and security forces quickly arrived on the scene, cordoning off the area as investigators began piecing together the circumstances. “An investigation is underway,” said a senior police officer who spoke to reporters.

Casualties were transported to Civil Hospital Quetta, which declared an emergency. BMC Hospital and the Trauma Center were also placed on high alert by Health Minister Kakar and Health Secretary Mujeeb‑ur-Rehman. Doctors, nurses, and paramedics were instructed to remain on standby to handle the inflow of victims.

Quetta Blast Heard Across City, Search Ops Begin

Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was so powerful it could be heard from across the city. Ambulances raced through the streets as security personnel combed nearby neighborhoods in search of suspects or further evidence.

No militant group has yet claimed the attack, but many analysts immediately turned attention toward separatist groups active in Balochistan, such as the Baloch Liberation Army, known for targeting both civilian and security infrastructure in the restive province.