Caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai reaffirmed his commitment to eradicate terrorism and restore peace in the province during a press conference in Quetta. Acknowledging the dedication of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to counteract terrorism, Achakzai stressed the collaboration between provincial and federal governments in combatting extremism.
He revealed the identification and recovery of the remains of the suicide bomber behind the recent 12 Rabiul Awwal procession incident in Mastung, which resulted in 60 casualties, including children, religious leaders, and a police officer. The assailant was identified as a teenager aged between 15 and 18. As a support gesture, Achakzai announced a compensation of Rs1.5 million for each victim’s family and assured aid for the injured, directing the health sector to provide optimum medical care for the blast victims.
Accusations & Consequences
Echoing Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s sentiments, Achakzai held the Indian intelligence agency, RAW, accountable for Balochistan’s unrest and subsequent terrorist activities, warning of strict action against such entities.
At a preceding briefing at the CM Secretariat, the consensus among officials, including Balochistan Home Minister Captain (retd) Zubair Jamali, was clear – RAW’s involvement in the Mastung blast and the state’s unwavering intent to neutralize terrorists. Bugti stressed the government’s directive to law enforcement agencies to arrest culprits, emphasizing zero tolerance for terrorism immediately. Reflecting the tragedy’s severity, he stated, “We cannot tolerate the bloodshed of innocent Pakistanis.”
