Balochistan [Pakistan], April 2 (ANI): Three members of a single family, including a woman and a minor, lost their lives while several others were injured after a mortar shell hit a residential locality in Balochistan's Awaran district late at night. The tragic incident occurred in the Cheri Malar area of Kolwah, intensifying concerns over civilian safety in conflict-prone regions, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

According to The Balochistan Post, residents have alleged that Pakistani security forces fired the mortar shell. The strike claimed the lives of Muhammad Omar, his wife Faiza, and their 12-year-old daughter. The sudden attack left the family devastated and the neighbourhood in shock. In addition to the fatalities, at least three other relatives sustained injuries in the blast. Among the injured was Omar's daughter-in-law, Fahmida, who, along with others, was rushed to a nearby medical facility.

However, details regarding their medical condition remain unclear. Eyewitnesses recounted chaotic scenes following the explosion, with residents scrambling to rescue victims trapped under debris. Houses in the vicinity suffered visible damage, and panic spread quickly throughout the area. One local, speaking anonymously, described the moment as 'terrifying,' adding that the powerful blast shook the entire neighbourhood and left families fearing for their lives.

The incident comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in Balochistan, where military operations have frequently been linked to civilian harm. Reports of collateral damage and a lack of accountability have been recurring concerns raised by local communities and observers, as highlighted by The Balochistan Post.

So far, Pakistani authorities have not issued any official statement addressing the allegations or clarifying the circumstances of the shelling. The absence of an immediate response has further fueled criticism and suspicion among residents. Human rights organisations have repeatedly urged greater safeguards for civilians in conflict zones, warning about the devastating consequences of using heavy weaponry in populated areas, as reported by The Balochistan Post. (ANI)