At least four were killed and over a dozen were wounded in an explosion on Wednesday night in Serena Hotel in Quetta. The nature of the blast is not yet clear. Fire and rescue operators reached the scene soon after the blast, which took place at 10:30 p.m.
Serena is a four-star deluxe hotel located on the Zarghun road in Quetta. According to officials, the blast occurred in parking lot of the hotel. Four people were killed in the explosion and over a dozen were wounded. Of these, two are reportedly in a critical state and the rest are relatively stable.
Viral videos of the incident show massive flames billowing from the hotel as ambulance sirens wail and people run around for safety.
An initial investigation has revealed that the explosion was caused when explosive material – fitted inside a car – was detonated. A fire brigade team soon arrived at the spot to douse the flames. The fire was brought under control and the cooling process is currently underway.
Officials have said that the wounded were moved to the hospital. The law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area and are investigating the intensity and occurrence of the explosion.
In a tweet, Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan sat strongly condemned the attack.
Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhary said that his ministry is in close contact with the Balochistan government and initial investigations are underway. “The government will issue a statement as soon as the nature of the blast and losses are determined,” he added.