Summary
Gunmen killed at least 21 miners and injured several others in a brutal attack on a coal mine in Balochistan, Pakistan, early on October 11, 2024. This incident occurred just days before a significant security summit in Islamabad, raising serious concerns about safety and security in the region.
The attack took place in the Duki district of Balochistan, where armed assailants reportedly stormed the miners’ accommodations, rounded them up, and opened fire. Most of the victims were from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province, with a few Afghan nationals among the casualties. Although no group immediately claimed responsibility, suspicion is directed towards the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), known for targeting civilians and security forces in its quest for independence for Balochistan. This incident is part of a troubling pattern of violence in the province, which has seen increased militant activity, particularly against workers involved in resource extraction. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from local and national officials, who have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice amid heightened security measures ahead of the upcoming international summit.
Context of Violence in Balochistan
Balochistan has long been a hotbed of insurgency and violence, with various separatist groups, including the BLA, accusing the federal government of exploiting the province’s rich natural resources without benefiting the local population. The region is critical for projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which has attracted significant foreign investment, particularly from China. However, this investment has also led to tensions, as local groups demand a greater share of the profits.
Recent Attacks and Security Concerns
The attack on the miners is not an isolated incident; it follows a series of violent acts in the region, including previous assaults on civilians and foreign workers. Just days before the miners were killed, the BLA claimed responsibility for an attack targeting Chinese nationals in Karachi, further complicating the security landscape. These events have prompted authorities to bolster security measures across the province and in major cities, especially in light of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, which aims to enhance regional cooperation against security threats.
Government Response
In response to the attack, officials from both Balochistan and the federal government have expressed their outrage and commitment to ensuring justice. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Balochistan’s Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the violence, labeling it an attack on innocent laborers and pledging to avenge their deaths. The government has initiated investigations and called for heightened security protocols to prevent further incidents, as the threat from separatist groups and militant organizations remains a significant concern in the region.
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