The recent targeted killing of a well-known local businessman near the airport road in Quetta has sent shockwaves through the community. This is not an isolated incident of lawlessness. A few months ago, the same businessman’s son was also kidnapped by unidentified assailants. In a separate incident before this, unidentified gunmen opened fire on a vehicle near Mian Ghundi along the Quetta-Karachi Highway, killing three Afghan nationals. Such incidents raise serious questions about the security situation in the provincal capital.
Given its importance as an economic hub and the centre of the province’s administration, Quetta is supposed to be secure. Unfortunately, the government of Balochistan has failed to adequately protect its law-abiding, tax-paying citizens. The continued occurrence of such incidents creates fear among residents and undermines confidence in the authorities responsible for maintaining law and order.
The provincial government must reconsider its policies and take effective measures to improve security in the city. Law enforcement agencies should strengthen their presence in vulnerable areas and ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice. The people of Quetta deserve to live and conduct their businesses without constantly fearing for their safety.
Irfan Ali
Jacobabad
