Two devastating explosions have resulted in the deaths of many individuals in Pakistan.

The initial explosion targeted a procession commemorating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad on Friday in Mastung, Balochistan province, claiming the lives of at least 52 people.

Another explosion occurred at a mosque in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where at least two individuals were reported dead.

The bombing in Mastung happened during a gathering of around 500 people assembled for a procession to celebrate the prophet’s birth anniversary, known as Mawlid an-Nabi.

The occasion typically involves rallies and the distribution of free meals to the community.

Government official Atta Ullah reported that those injured in the blast were transported to nearby hospitals, and some were in critical condition.

Abdul Rasheed, the District Health Officer in Mastung, confirmed that 30 bodies were taken to one hospital, while 22 others were counted at a second hospital. Among the casualties was senior police officer Mohammad Nawaz.

While Baluchistan has experienced numerous attacks by insurgents and militants, they have generally targeted security forces rather than civilians or places of worship.

The Pakistan Taliban has also asserted that they do not target worship places and civilians.

Authorities had recently warned police to remain on high alert, as there were concerns that militants might target gatherings celebrating the prophet’s birthday.

President Arif Alvi and caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attacks, and the government declared a national holiday in honor of Prophet Muhammad’s birth anniversary.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the bombings, but the Pakistani Taliban distanced themselves from the attacks.

Baluchistan, located at the Afghanistan-Iran border and rich in natural gas resources, has been plagued by a low-level insurgency by Baluch nationalists for more than two decades, initially demanding a share of provincial resources but later calling for independence.