Pakistan: Blast Near EC Office In Karachi Ahead Of Feb 8 Elections, No Causalities Reported

Pakistan: It is said the explosive materials were kept in a shopping bag adjacent to Election Commission’s office in Karachi.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 3 February 2024 8:09 am

Election Rally in Pakistan. Photo: AP

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan, the blast has occurred near the country’s Election Commission Office in Karachi.

The blast occurred near Pakistan's Election Commission office in Karachi on Friday, local media reported. Pakistan's ARY News quoting police sources said that no casualties were reported in the incident.

Reportedly, the explosive materials were kept in a shopping bag adjacent to the poll panel office in Karachi.

Local media quoting police sources said that a bomb disposal squad had been summoned to the blast site. It added the nature and target of the explosion are yet to be ascertained.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's restive Balochistan province was rattled with at least 10 bomb and grenade attacks on Thursday, resulting in the death of one person. Several police stations and deputy commissioners’ offices were targeted in the attacks in which six people, including police and jail officials, were injured, the Dawn newspaper reported.

Authorities in Pakistan have been scrambling to keep peace ahead of next week's general elections. Pakistan will go to the polls on February 8.

The Election Commission of Pakistan had summoned a meeting on Thursday to discuss the increasing poll-related violence and security challenges. "The February 8 election will be held on time. Despite security challenges, the ECP is fully prepared," Pakistan's Chief Election Commissioner said shortly after the meeting.