What Happened to Four Labourers Killed in Balochistan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Four labourers from Punjab were killed in Nushki, Balochistan.
- Authorities confirmed targeted killings based on ethnicity.
- The incident raises alarms over security for Punjabis in Balochistan.
- Government vows to take action against perpetrators.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the broader implications.
Quetta, May 14 (NationPress) The remains of at least four labourers, originating from various regions of Pakistan's Punjab province, were discovered in the Nushki district of Balochistan on Wednesday, prompting serious concerns regarding the ongoing targeted assassinations of individuals from Punjab across the province. Authorities confirmed the targeted murder of four individuals, stating that assailants opened fire, killing them instantly.
The incident took place in the Gulangoor area of Nushki district. The deceased were transported to the Teaching Hospital in Noshki for necessary medico-legal examinations. Investigators have confirmed the identities of the victims, establishing that they were indeed from different regions of Punjab.
“Two of the deceased were from Pakpattan – Moeen, son of Ghulam Mustafa, and Huzaifa, son of Muhammad Latif. The other two, identified as Imran Ali and Irfan Ali, both sons of Maqsood Ahmed, were from Rahim Yar Khan,” stated an official from the Teaching Hospital Noshki.
Law enforcement officials have commenced an investigation into the murders. There is suspicion that the victims were targeted due to their ethnicity, as they were from Punjab. Authorities are exploring whether this incident is part of a broader pattern of violence in the region.
In recent months, individuals from Punjab, including labourers and government officials, have been targeted by separatist Baloch factions in significant attacks, where the identities of victims were scrutinized prior to their execution.
Baloch separatists have previously obstructed major highways, halted passenger buses, and examined the identity cards of passengers, distinguishing those from Punjab before executing them. During a recent terror strike on the Jaffar Express train, those from Punjab were reportedly singled out and killed by militants affiliated with the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).
This latest incident has intensified fears about the deteriorating security landscape in Balochistan, with officials struggling to safeguard individuals from Punjab who travel to the province for employment.
“We vehemently condemn these killings and extend our deepest sympathies to the grieving families. We assure you that the provincial government of Balochistan is dedicated to protecting the lives and property of its citizens,” said Shahid Rind, spokesperson for Chief Minister Balochistan Sarfaraz Bugti.
“Those who perpetrated this act of terrorism will be held accountable. The government will not tolerate assaults on innocent labourers and will take decisive actions against the offenders,” he added.