Lahore: The recent targeted killing in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, amid increasing violence, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. QUETTA — Mufti Abdul Baqi, a high-ranking Islamic scholar and a senior leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), was shot dead on Airport Road in the capital of Balochistan on Sunday. Unidentified gunmen opened fire at him, and he died from bullet injuries on the way to the hospital. The region is in mourning and reeling from this incident.
After the assault, authorities and security forces began a manhunt to locate those behind the attack. While the motive for the killing continues to be unclear, the administration vowed to do everything possible to catch the assailants. Such incidents are becoming a new norm in Balochistan, making it increasingly difficult for the government and security forces.
Recently, a like incident took place in Turbat where unknown armed riders opened fire at Mufti Shah Meer as he came out of a mosque after offering prayers. Meer was not able to be saved, unfortunately, and they carried him to the hospital. Such events have worsened the Balochistan security situation.
It is facing increasing terrorism, targeted killings, and assaults on security personnel, which is a source of immense worry for the Pakistani state. Not only do such incidents create fear and unrest in the region, but they also pose a threat to the entire security architecture of the country. The Pakistan government has been alarmed by recent incidents, including a train hijacking and an attack on a military convoy.