- Seven passengers shot dead in Barkhan district, Balochistan.
- Attackers intercepted buses, checked IDs, and executed victims.
- Victims identified as residents of Punjab province.
- No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Incident follows a recent surge in regional violence.
In a tragic incident, seven passengers were shot dead late Tuesday night in Barkhan district, Balochistan, Pakistan. Armed assailants intercepted several buses, forcibly removing and executing victims after checking their identity cards. Authorities confirmed that all victims were from Punjab province. No group has claimed responsibility, and officials have launched a manhunt for the attackers.
The attack occurred in an area plagued by separatist violence. Balochistan has long been a hotspot for insurgent activity, with groups seeking greater autonomy and control over local resources. The latest incident raises concerns about security and ongoing instability in the region.
Attack Details
The assault took place near the Rakhni area of Barkhan district, along a highway connecting Quetta to Lahore. Officials reported that nearly 40 armed militants set up a makeshift checkpoint. They stopped multiple buses, checked passengers’ identity cards, and forced seven individuals to step outside before executing them. The attackers fled the scene before security forces arrived.
Authorities have since cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. However, no arrests have been made so far. “We are investigating the motive behind the attack and working to identify the perpetrators,” said Deputy Commissioner Waqar Khurshid Alam.
Government and Security Response
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism. In a joint statement, they assured the public that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Provincial Minister for Food, Haji Noor Muhammad Khan Dummar, also denounced the killings. “This is an attack on innocent civilians and an attempt to spread fear. We will not allow terrorists to destabilize our province,” he stated.
Authorities have increased security in the region, deploying additional forces to monitor major highways and potential militant hideouts. Intelligence agencies are also investigating possible links to previous attacks in Balochistan.
Context of Regional Violence
Balochistan has witnessed decades of separatist violence, with various militant groups demanding greater autonomy. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), one of the largest insurgent groups, has carried out numerous attacks against security forces, infrastructure, and non-local workers.
In August 2024, the BLA claimed responsibility for a wave of attacks that resulted in over 70 deaths. One incident involved militants stopping vehicles, checking passengers’ identities, and executing 23 individuals. Security analysts believe such tactics are aimed at deterring non-Baloch settlers from living and working in the province.
This latest attack follows a deadly roadside bombing in Harnai district last Friday, which killed 11 coal miners from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The repeated targeting of non-Baloch workers has raised fears among laborers and businesses operating in the region.
Impact on Security and Development
The escalating violence in Balochistan threatens key development projects, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). China has invested $65 billion in infrastructure projects, including the deep-water port in Gwadar. However, separatist groups have repeatedly attacked Chinese workers and interests in the region.
Security concerns have already led to delays in several projects. Last year, multiple Chinese companies temporarily halted operations in Balochistan following an uptick in attacks. The Pakistani government has since increased security measures, including the deployment of special protection units for foreign nationals working in the region.
Experts warn that without addressing the root causes of the insurgency, economic investments alone may not bring lasting stability. “Baloch grievances stem from economic marginalization and political neglect. Unless these issues are resolved, violence is likely to persist,” said security analyst Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa.
Rising Tensions
The attack in Barkhan highlights the ongoing security crisis in Balochistan. As authorities work to apprehend the perpetrators, the incident raises broader concerns about militant violence, regional stability, and the safety of non-Baloch workers.
Addressing the insurgency requires a comprehensive approach, including improved security, economic development, and political dialogue. Until these measures are effectively implemented, Balochistan will remain a volatile region at the heart of Pakistan’s security challenges.