At least five labourers were shot dead in a terrorist attack in the Mashkel area of Washuk district, Balochistan, after armed assailants opened fire on them at a local shop.
According to security sources, the victims were identified as Mohammad Bilal, Mohammad Hussain, Mohammad Qadeer, Mohsin, and Bilal. Officials said the labourers had travelled from outside Balochistan in search of employment.
Following the attack, security forces cordoned off the area and launched a large-scale search operation across Washuk district to trace and arrest those responsible.
Police have registered the incident and initiated an investigation. After completing legal formalities, the victims’ bodies are being transported to their native areas for burial.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the killings, describing the attack on unarmed labourers as a cowardly act. He said terrorists were attempting to spread fear and destabilise the country, adding that the government would continue taking decisive action against those challenging the state’s authority.
Provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind said authorities had taken immediate notice of the incident and assured that those involved would be brought to justice.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack, calling the killing of innocent labourers a barbaric and inhumane act. He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and protecting the lives and property of citizens.
The attack comes amid ongoing counterterrorism operations across Balochistan. Security forces continue to carry out operations aimed at dismantling militant networks following recent incidents of violence in the province.
