Balochistan police open fire on flood victims; one dead

The cop reportedly wanted to disperse the crowd, which had gathered in a large number


Syed Ali Shah October 07, 2022
People retrieve bamboos from a damaged house following rains and floods during the monsoon season in Dera Allah Yar, district Jafferabad, Balochistan. PHOTO: REUTERS

QUETTA:

Police on Thursday allegedly opened fire on flood victims, who had gathered in a large number to receive relief goods, reportedly to disperse them, killing a young man while injuring another in Balochistan’s Jaffarabad district.

The deceased was identified as 25-year-old Naurez.

Both the deceased and the injured were shifted to the district hospital Jaffarabad.

“The accused policeman has to be taken into custody,” Naseerabad Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Police Abdul Hai Baloch told The Express Tribune via telephone.

Baloch said a case would be registered against the accused.

According to an eyewitness, the crowd gathered near the Police Station cattle farm area of Jaffarabad where an INGO was distributing relief goods.

It was reported that the police had opened fire to disperse the flood victims who had gathered in a large number whereas the relief items to be distributed were quantified.

Also read: PDMA offers updates on flood relief activities

“Police martyred my son while he was receiving the relief goods at the distribution site,” victim’s father Wasand Khan Mastoi stated.

“My son was innocent. I want the policeman to be brought to justice,” Mastoi spoke as he burst into tears.

Protesters chanted slogans against the police and the government while the flood affectees staged a protest and blocked the road, demanding justice for the deceased.

DIG Jaffarabad and other senior police officials reached the site and negotiated with the protesters.

“We will investigate the incident and ensure justice,” the DIG said.

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