At least seven policemen have been injured in an attack on the police training centre situated on Saryab road in Quetta, late on Monday.
Between five to six terrorists have attacked the police training centre, Pakistan Army and Frontier Constabulary troops have arrived on the site, said a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
What we know so far
- Five to six attackers initiated the assault at 11:30pm
- At least seven policemen injured
- Operation underway, training centre cordoned
- Army and FC forces at the scene
- Emergency declared in hospital
The attackers entered the complex through the front gate and the attack started at 11:30pm.
The attackers have reportedly taken police personnel hostage. Around 500 cadets are said to be present in the centre's hostel.
Balochistan's Home Minister Mir Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti confirmed that terrorists have attacked the training centre.
“Our security forces have the capability to combat such attacks and threats,” said the home minister.
He added that that recently there were 700 cadets present, but a batch passed out a few days ago.
“As of now, I do not have a confirmed figure on cadets present inside the centre.”
Senior law enforcement and army officials are present at the scene and are overseeing the operation.
Extra contingents of security forces have been deployed at the spot and a cordon has been established.
Security forces and the attackers are exchanging fire. Gunfire and explosions can be heard from inside the centre.
An emergency has been declared in all government hospitals of the provincial capital, with the injured shifted to Civil Hospital Quetta and the Bolan Medical Complex.
The situation was tense in the area and people remained confined to their houses.
Militants have conducted attacks against security forces and national installations in Balochistan, which has been plagued by an insurgency and growing sectarian killings for more than a decade.
