A devastating car bomb blast rocked the Gulistan area of Qila Abdullah, near Pakistan's border with Afghanistan, killing at least four people and injuring over 20 others. Eight of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
The explosion occurred in Jabbar Market along the Quetta&ndash;Chaman National Highway, adjacent to the fort of Pakistan&rsquo;s paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC). The powerful blast destroyed multiple vehicles and shops, with several buildings catching fire. The walls of the FC fort also sustained damage.
Reports indicate the attack may have been aimed at tribal warlord Faizullah Ghabizai, a pro-government figure, who was present in the area at the time. While Ghabizai escaped unharmed, one of his guards was killed and several others were injured.
Qila Abdullah&rsquo;s Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Riaz Dawar confirmed that an improvised explosive device (IED) had been installed in a vehicle and was likely detonated remotely. Following the explosion, intense gunfire was exchanged between security forces and the attackers.
The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed responsibility for the bombing. Authorities are currently investigating the incident, and security has been heightened in Qila Abdullah and neighboring Chaman.
Security analysts suggest a growing operational link between the TTP and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Qamar Cheema, a strategic affairs analyst, stated that the presence of TTP deep within Balochistan points to a coordinated effort between militant groups targeting Pakistani security forces. He also noted increasing activity by separatist outfits like the Sindh Desh Revolutionary Army, which allegedly have ties to both the BLA and TTP.
According to officials, Pakistan believes these militant groups are receiving external support and facilitation from across the border in Afghanistan.
Social media accounts associated with the BLA have intensified propaganda efforts, calling for secession and expressing symbolic support for India.

Militant attack near Pakistan-Afghanistan border targets security forces; TTP claims responsibility amid rising terror coordination in region

Car Bomb Hits Frontier Corps Fort in Balochistan; At Least 4 Dead, Over 20 Injured

Militant attack near Pakistan-Afghanistan border targets security forces; TTP claims responsibility amid rising terror coordination in region

May 19, 2025 | 16:29 IST