Balochistan CM takes strict notice of forcing theft suspects walk on embers

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has taken strict notice of an incident in Musa Khail district, where several men accused of theft were allegedly forced to walk over embers in an outdated and unlawful local ritual.

Condemning the act as both 'inhumane' and incompatible with a modern society, CM Bugti directed the administration to take swift action against all those involved. He said such practices have no place under the law and must be eradicated.

According to the Balochistan Home Department, six prime suspects have already been arrested, with officials saying more arrests are expected as the investigation widens.

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Musa Khail Deputy Commissioner Razzaq Khan Khajak said the incident unfolded after a shopkeeper, Gulah Jan, accused six individuals of stealing Rs20,000 from his shop.

Instead of approaching the police, a small informal jirga reportedly decided to subject the suspects to a fire test to determine guilt.

Preliminary findings indicate that a man identified as Ghulam Muhammad had prepared the blazing fire used in the ritual. The DC said, six men were taken into custody, while two others have been identified and will be arrested soon.

Authorities said, strict legal action is under way, reiterating that no one is permitted to take the law into hands or enforce primitive customs that put lives at risk.