Terror attack kills four near Quetta resort

Four local residents were killed and nine injured when armed terrorists attacked citizens in the tourist spot of Hina Urak on the outskirts of Quetta on Sunday evening.

In the ensuing clash, local tribesmen resisted the attackers, forcing them to flee.

Security forces launched an immediate operation on the directives of Chief Minister Balochistan. During the operation, two Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) personnel were injured, while three terrorists were killed.

Addressing a joint press conference on Monday, Balochistan Interior Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau and Deputy Chief Minister Shahid Rind assured the people of the government's full support and detailed the ongoing security measures.

"Last night, terrorists attacked the peace-loving people of Hina Urak. The locals showed great courage and pushed the attackers back," Mir Ziaullah Langau said. "On the instructions of the Chief Minister, security forces immediately initiated an operation which is continuing until the area is fully cleared."

The minister confirmed that a joint security checkpoint has already been established in Hina Urak. He revealed that seven people were abducted by the attackers and security forces are on high alert for their safe recovery.

Langau strongly condemned external support for terrorism, accusing India of backing the militants while Afghanistan is allowing its soil to be used against Pakistan. He clarified that a statement issued by Senator Manzoor Kakar reflected his personal views only.

The Interior Minister personally visited Hina Urak late on Sunday night to review the situation on the ground.

Deputy Chief Minister Shahid Rind announced that the Chief Minister has constituted a high-level committee headed by Interior Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau. The committee will hold talks with the protesters. He warned that strict action would be taken against those spreading unverified news and rumours through WhatsApp groups.

Rind assured that the operation would not end until the area is completely cleared and sanitised. "The state stands firmly with its people," he said, adding that security forces are in full alert and working to ensure peace.

Both leaders appealed to citizens to avoid rumours and fully cooperate with security forces. They emphasised that protecting the lives and property of the people is the foremost duty of the state.

The government has taken several steps for the restoration of peace in Hina Urak and surrounding areas. The situation is being closely monitored, and all possible facilities and protection are being provided to the affected population.

The protest sit-in on Airport Road continues, with traffic still affected. Earlier, the government decided to set up a joint police and Frontier Corps checkpoint at Kali Babri, Hina Urak, after locals provided land for the facility.

This incident is being seen as a significant moment in Balochistan's ongoing fight against terrorism, with the combined efforts of the government and security forces marking a positive step toward lasting stability in the region.