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Emir JI Pakistan Sirajul Haq’s convoy comes under suicide attack in Balochistan; Sirajul Haq, others remained safe

QUETTA, May 19 (SABAH): A “suicide blast” targeted Emir Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Sirajul Haq’s convoy as he was traveling for a rally in Balochistan’s Zhob, injuring seven people, police officials and party leaders confirmed Friday. The injured have been shifted to the nearby hospitals.

“Sirajul Haq and others remained unharmed during the suicide blast occurred in Balochistan,” the party’s General Secretary Ameerul Azim said. He said that the suicide bomber was killed.

The JI said on its official Twitter account that it was a suicide attack, adding that the attacker had been killed. In a separate tweet, the party said that seven workers were injured, of which four were critical. Sirajul Haq would address the rally as per schedule, the JI added.

Footage showed smoke rising close to the vehicle in which the JI chief was purportedly traveling. As the smoke cleared, a dead body, allegedly that of the attacker could be seen.

Meanwhile, JI Spokesperson Qaiser Sharif said a few vehicles had also been damaged.

The party chief had reached Quetta earlier on Friday, he said, adding that a large number of people had gathered to welcome Sirajul Haq as he entered Zhob. “The suicide attacker was also part of the crowd.”

“Everybody was safe in the suicide attack and there was no loss of lives. According to initial information, only some cars have been damaged and a few people have sustained injuries.” “JI leadership is safe,” he added.

Meanwhile Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the attack and expressed grief over the injuries.

“Terrorists want to achieve their evil goals by spreading unrest. We will not allow terrorist elements and their handlers to succeed in their impure objectives,” he asserted.