Gunmen kill 23 in Pakistan after forcing victims out of vehicles

In a horrifying act of violence, at least 23 individuals from Punjab lost their lives in Balochistan’s Musakhel district in Pakistan on Monday. According to the Dawn, armed assailants forcibly removed passengers from trucks and buses before opening fire on them after verifying their identities.

Details of the Attack

According to Assistant Commissioner of Musakhail, Najeeb Kakar, the attackers obstructed the inter-provincial highway in Rarasham district, Musakhel. They halted and scrutinized the passengers before executing them. The victims were primarily identified as residents of Pakistan’s Punjab.

Emergency services, including police and Levies officials, arrived promptly at the scene. They began transporting the deceased to nearby hospitals for further procedures, as confirmed by the Assistant Commissioner.

Government Reactions

Balochistan’s Chief Minister, Sarfaraz Bugti, has vehemently denounced this act of terrorism. In his statement, he extended profound sympathies and condolences to the families affected by this heinous act. Bugti vowed that those responsible, along with their accomplices, will face justice and assured that the Balochistan government is committed to pursuing the perpetrators.

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar also condemned the attack, describing it as an act of extreme brutality against innocent passengers. In a statement shared on X by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Tarar asserted that the terrorists and their supporters would face an appropriate and decisive response. He extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, emphasizing the government's sympathy and support during this difficult time.