QUETTA: A bomb attack took place in a bus carrying almost 40 Shia pilgrims on Thursday. Officials have reported 15 casualties and 25 injuries as a result of the blast.

According to the preliminary reports of the bomb disposal squad, the bomb was remote controlled and almost 18kg of explosive material was used for the explosion.

The bus was travelling from Taftan to Quetta, when the explosion took place near the Hazar Ganji area. Witnesses have labelled the blast to be a suicide attack and have further stated that explosion was of great intensity.

The bus was escorted by two police mobiles when the explosion took place and 3 police officials are reported dead along with the 15 individuals.

Rescue operations are underway at the affected site and the injured are being transferred to nearby hospitals.