Balochistan vows justice after attack

Jan Achakzai announces Rs1.5 million for the families of each Mastung blast victim

QUETTA:

Balochistan’s Caretaker Information Minister, Jan Achakzai, has voiced the unwavering commitment of both provincial and federal authorities to confront the looming threats of extremism and terrorism within the province.

In response to Friday’s Mastung atrocity, he disclosed that the remains of the suicide bomber had been discovered, suggesting that the assailant was a young man aged between 15 to 18 years.

Achakzai underscored the profound sacrifices made by the resilient people of Balochistan in their ongoing struggle for the stability of Pakistan.

Authorities had collected the remains of the suicide bomber from the scene, and these grim remnants were promptly dispatched for a comprehensive DNA test to ascertain the identity of the attacker.

The minister proclaimed that Balochistan, a province with a rich cultural tapestry and historical significance, would not tolerate the blight of terrorism.

The state was fully cognizant of the individuals and groups responsible for the unfortunate Mastung incident, and he assured the public that justice would be expeditiously served to bring the perpetrators to account.

Furthermore, Jan Achakzai announced a significant compensation package, extending Rs1.5 million to the families of each of the martyrs who had tragically lost their lives in the attack.

He affirmed that the government’s responsibility extended beyond the fallen heroes to those injured in the Mastung bombing. The health department had been instructed to ensure that the wounded received not just adequate but the best possible medical care.

Achakzai pledged to formulate a comprehensive security policy, aligned with the vision of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, designed to counteract the menace of terrorism. He commended the steadfastness, dedication, and vision of the army chief, recognizing the pivotal role played by the armed forces in safeguarding the nation.

Highlighting the resolve of the provincial government, under the leadership of caretaker Chief Minister Ali Mardan Domki, Achakzai underscored their determination to eradicate the menace of terrorism from Balochistan.

He reiterated allegations that the Indian intelligence agency was behind the recent unrest and spate of terrorist attacks in the region, vowing that such elements would not escape justice.

Background

The tragic Mastung blast on Friday claimed the lives of 60 individuals, with interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti pointing fingers at India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) as the likely orchestrator of the deadly explosion.

The suicide bomber targeted an Eid Miladun Nabi procession in Mastung, Balochistan, resulting in the loss of at least 55 lives and leaving 60 others injured.

The attack occurred during preparations for Friday prayers and celebrations of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birth anniversary. Following the blast, numerous injured victims were admitted to various government-run hospitals in Quetta.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 2^nd, 2023.