PkNAP Condemns Killing of Two Women, Raises Alarm Over Highway Security in Balochistan

Quetta: The Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PkNAP) has strongly condemned the killing of two women in an armed attack near Manguchar and expressed serious concern over what it described as the deteriorating law and order situation across Balochistan.

In a statement issued by the party’s provincial secretariat, PkNAP said the worsening security situation has turned into a major crisis, placing the lives, property, businesses, and freedom of movement of citizens at risk. The party alleged that armed groups and criminal elements have become increasingly active on major highways, posing a serious threat to travelers and transporters.

Referring to the July 20 incident near Manguchar, the party said unidentified armed men opened fire on the vehicle of Haji Painda Khan, a resident of Zhob, while he was traveling with his family. According to the statement, two women were killed in the attack, while other family members suffered injuries and trauma. The party offered condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

PkNAP also claimed that incidents involving highway robberies, extortion, kidnappings, and attacks on cargo vehicles have increased in districts including Mastung, Manguchar, Kalat, Surab, and Khuzdar. It alleged that transport companies, truck drivers, and traders are facing growing security threats, affecting commercial activity and creating uncertainty among businesses.

The party further stated that transporters and traders have decided to suspend the movement of goods from Quetta to Karachi and other affected areas for an indefinite period due to security concerns.

Calling for immediate action, PkNAP urged the provincial and federal governments, the Interior Ministry, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen security on national highways, take decisive action against armed and criminal groups, ensure the safety of traders, transporters, drivers, and passengers, and bring those involved in extortion, kidnappings, and robberies to justice.

The party warned that if effective measures are not taken to restore law and order and secure the highways, protests could be expanded and additional democratic measures, including a complete suspension of goods transportation across the province, may be considered.