PkMAP Condemns ‘Unjustified’ Raids on Shops and Businesses in Quetta

QUETTA: The district chapter of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party has strongly condemned what it described as unjustified raids by magistrates on shops, hotels, food outlets, and business centers in different areas of Quetta.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the party said the alleged misuse of authority by the administration has caused severe mental and financial distress to traders and the general public. The statement further alleged that bribery and extortion practices were also taking place during such operations, calling the situation “deeply concerning.”

PkMAP stated that the role of magistrates should be limited to matters of public interest, cleanliness, implementation of official price lists, and enforcement of government directives, adding that the party supports lawful administrative measures taken in the public interest.

However, the party criticized the harassment of traders, imposition of “unjustified fines,” alleged bribery, arrests, and transfer of shopkeepers to jail, saying such actions were unacceptable.

The statement urged the district administration and higher authorities to immediately investigate the alleged misuse of powers and take action against those responsible. It warned that traders and citizens reserve the right to protest if the situation continues, adding that the party would stand with them.

According to the statement, such operations have been reported in several commercial areas including Satellite Town, Mini Market, Achakzai Market, Chalo Bawari, Liaquat Bazaar, Masjid Road, Kandahari Bazaar, Alamo, Khezi, and other parts of the city.

The party also said that amid rising inflation and severe unemployment, citizens should not be deprived of their lawful means of earning a livelihood.