Deadly Blast Near Islamabad Court: Parked Car Explosion Kills Five, Leaves Dozens Critically Injured

Islamabad: A powerful explosion took place outside the Islamabad High Court at around 12:30 PM on Tuesday, creating widespread panic in the high-security judicial zone. The blast occurred in the parking area, where several vehicles were parked close to each other. Witnesses say they heard a sudden loud bang that sent shock and confusion across the court premises. Within moments, thick smoke began rising, multiple car alarms started ringing, and people rushed out of corridors and courtrooms to seek safety. Police and emergency rescue teams reached the scene within minutes, cordoning off the area and starting relief operations.

Cause Behind the Blast

According to initial police statements, the explosion is suspected to have been caused by a gas cylinder fitted in one of the parked vehicles. However, authorities have clarified that the cause is not confirmed yet. A forensic science team has collected burnt metal pieces and debris to determine whether the cylinder burst due to leakage, overheating, or tampering. CCTV footage from the court’s parking and nearby buildings is being reviewed to establish the timeline of the vehicle’s entry. Since the incident occurred in a sensitive government zone, investigators are examining every angle, including negligence, malfunction, or deliberate sabotage.

Casualties and Injuries

Hospital officials have confirmed that twelve people have died in the explosion. More than twenty-five individuals have been injured, including lawyers, court employees, security guards, and civilians present for routine hearings. Several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition and are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals. Medical teams have requested additional blood supplies as emergency surgeries are underway. Families of the injured have begun arriving at hospitals, where authorities are compiling and verifying identity details. Officials warn that the death toll may rise, depending on medical outcomes.

Panic Inside the Court Premises

The blast triggered large-scale panic inside the court compound. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as people ran down staircases and through corridors, fearing the possibility of another explosion. Court proceedings were immediately halted and buildings were evacuated. Some nearby vehicles caught fire, while others were damaged by the shockwave. Lawyers present during the blast described the sound as “so powerful that the floor seemed to vibrate.” The smoke rising above the complex added to the confusion and made visibility difficult in some areas.

Security Measures Taken

Soon after the explosion, police sealed all entry and exit points in and around the court complex. Bomb disposal units conducted a thorough sweep to ensure no secondary explosive devices were present. Fire brigade teams worked to control the smoke and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent vehicles. Authorities have temporarily restricted public movement in the area and requested people to stay away until safety checks are completed. Additional security personnel have been deployed to manage crowds and maintain order.

Investigation Progress

Officials emphasize that the investigation is being carried out from multiple angles. The ownership details of the vehicle are being scrutinized, and its recent movement history is being traced. Court parking staff and nearby shopkeepers are being questioned for possible observations. As Islamabad is home to key government offices, diplomatic facilities, and high-security institutions, investigating agencies consider the incident a matter of national concern. Forensic analysis and technical reports are expected to guide further conclusions in the coming days.

Precautionary Measures and Public Advisory

Public entry to the judicial complex will remain restricted until full security clearance is granted. Authorities have appealed to citizens not to spread unverified information or rumors, which can cause unnecessary panic. The government has urged the public to report any suspicious objects or activity, especially in crowded or high-security areas. Discussions have also begun on reviewing safety measures for vehicles using gas cylinders in public parking spaces. The focus remains on medical care for the injured and identifying how such a powerful blast occurred in a protected legal zone.