A series of low-intensity bomb blasts on Wednesday targeted ATM machines of a state-run bank and railway tracks in Sindh province of southern Pakistan, injuring at least six persons.
There were at least 16 blasts in cities and towns across Sindh, including the capital city of Karachi, Geo News channel reported. A policeman was among the six people injured in the blasts.
Four persons were injured when blasts targeted ATM machines outside branches of the National Bank of Pakistan at four places in Hyderabad city early this morning.
Blasts were also reported from Kotri, Dadu, Badin, Sukkur, Nawabshah, Thatta, Ranipur, Khairpur Nathan Shah, Tando Mohammad Khan and Larkana.
One low-intensity explosion damaged railway tracks near Ghotki.
The Jaffar Express train, going from Punjab to Sindh, had a narrow escape, media reports said. Local residents gathered at the tracks and signalled the train to stop. A blast was also reported at Gulistan-e-Johar area of Karachi though there were no casualties.
SSP Haseeb Afzal Baig said the bombs used in Hyderabad city contained at least 500 gm of explosives. The first blast in Hyderabad city occurred at about 5.30 am local time.
A little-known organisation called the Sindhu Desh Liberation Army (SDLA) claimed responsibility for the blasts. Deputy Superintendent of Police Aijaz Bhatti said police had found pamphlets bearing the name of SDLA near the banks targeted in Hyderabad city.
The blasts created panic among people in several cities and towns. Security forces were put on alert and additional guards deployed at sensitive buildings in Sindh.