Seven bus passengers tragically lost their lives in a fatal shooting incident in Barkhan, Balochistan. The victims, who were traveling from Quetta to Faisalabad, were stopped by armed assailants who set up a roadblock on a national highway in the Rarkan area. The attackers, armed with Kalashnikov rifles, forced the passengers off the bus after checking their identification cards. Eyewitnesses reported that between 10 to 12 armed men were involved in the heinous act.
Eyewitness Accounts and Response
Local residents and officials have expressed shock and outrage at the brutal killings. One witness, a resident of Burewala, recounted the harrowing incident, highlighting the senseless violence inflicted on innocent travelers. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack, emphasizing that such acts of terror against defenseless civilians will not be tolerated. The Assistant Commissioner of Barkhan also confirmed the tragic deaths of seven passengers, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Government Response and Pursuit of Justice
In response to the tragedy, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued statements condemning the senseless violence and offering condolences to the families of the victims. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The Balochistan government has deployed security forces, including Frontier Corps (FC) and Levies, to the area to pursue the terrorists responsible for the attack. Local authorities have taken precautionary measures, halting passenger vehicles at various points to ensure the safety of travelers.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, denouncing the cowardly act of terrorism. He vowed to hold those responsible for the attack accountable and ensure that justice is served. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the government’s determination to eradicate terrorism and protect its citizens from such senseless violence. The sacrifices of the victims will not be forgotten, and efforts to maintain peace and security in the region will continue unabated.
The tragic shooting incident in Barkhan, Balochistan serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism and the importance of collective action to address such threats. As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, the resolve to combat extremism and safeguard the lives of citizens remains unwavering. The pursuit of justice for the victims and their families underscores the commitment of the government and security forces to uphold peace and security in the region. The perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice, and their actions will not go unpunished. The resilience and unity of the Pakistani people in the face of adversity exemplify the strength and determination of a nation united in the pursuit of peace and justice.
