Italics indicates attacks resulting in more than 40 deaths ‡ indicates attacks resulting in more than 100 deaths Underline indicates the deadliest terrorist attack/s to date
"The bomber was trying to enter the polling station. When police tried to stop him, he blew himself," a local administration official in Quetta, Hashim Ghilzai, has said.[4] According to Bomb Disposal Squad, 18-20 kilograms of explosives were used in the suicide attack.[5]
Responsibility
Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the group’s Amaq news agency. The group said the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber, but did not provide further detail or evidence for its claim.[6]
Aftermath
Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) while condemning the attack had summoned report from Balochistan government. ECP also suspended the internet and cellphone services in several districts in Balochistan. Polling resumed in the PB-31 polling station after being suspended briefly, however, the number of voters remained low.[2]
Reactions
Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-InsafImran Khan condemned the attack and called it a “terrorist attack” by Pakistan’s enemies “seeking to disrupt our democratic process”. He tweeted, "Condemnable terrorist attack in Quetta by enemies of Pak seeking to disrupt our democratic process. Saddened by the loss of innocent lives. Pakistanis must defeat the terrorists' design by coming out in strength to cast their vote."[7]
President of Pakistan Muslim League (N)Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the incident as a “terrorist attack” and offered his condolences to the families of the victims. He tweeted, "Heart broken to learn of martyrdom of innocent people including police officials & injuries sustained by others in a terrorist attack in Quetta at a time when the people are exercising their democratic right of vote. My profound condolences to the bereaved families."[8]
