PESHAWAR: As Pakistan conducted its general election on Thursday, the country witnessed a series of militant attacks, resulting in the loss of at least five lives.
The interior ministry took preemptive measures to maintain law and order, including the temporary suspension of mobile phone services nationwide and the closure of some land borders.
The decision to enhance security measures came in the wake of two explosions near electoral candidates’ offices in Balochistan, claiming the lives of 26 individuals.
The militant group Islamic State later claimed responsibility for these attacks. In response, the interior ministry emphasized the necessity of stringent security measures to address potential threats and ensure public safety.
To bolster security, thousands of troops were deployed across the country, particularly at polling stations. Additionally, land borders with neighboring Iran and Afghanistan were temporarily closed to prevent unauthorized crossings and maintain control over border regions.
During the course of the election, several incidents of violence occurred. In the Kulachi area of Dera Ismail Khan district, four policemen lost their lives in a bomb blast and subsequent firing targeting a police patrol. Furthermore, one individual was killed in Tank when gunmen opened fire on a security forces vehicle.
Despite the security challenges, polling activities remained largely unaffected, with only reports of grenade attacks in various parts of Balochistan.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported in these incidents, allowing the electoral process to proceed without major disruption. Authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding polling stations and ensuring the safety of voters and election officials.
