On February 19, 2025, a tragic terrorist attack in Barkhan, Balochistan, claimed the lives of seven passengers who were forcibly removed from a bus traveling from Quetta to Lahore. The assailants set up a checkpoint near the Rarkan area, stopping the bus, inspecting identity cards, and executing seven individuals from Punjab in a brutal act of violence.
The victims have been identified as Muhammad Ishaq, Ashiq Hussain, Asim Ali, Adnan Mustafa, and Muhammad Ajmal. Their bodies were transferred to Rakni Hospital, where an emergency was declared to handle the situation.
Official Response & Condemnation
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the attack, calling it a cowardly act against peace. “Targeting innocent and unarmed civilians is unacceptable. We will not rest until the perpetrators are brought to justice,” he stated.
Security forces, including the Frontier Corps (FC) and Levies, were immediately deployed to the scene and have launched an operation to track down the terrorists responsible for the heinous crime.
This incident mirrors a previous attack on August 26, 2024, when militants in Balochistan’s Musakhail district executed 23 passengers in a similar manner. The recurring nature of such attacks has raised serious concerns about the safety of travelers and the overall security situation in the province.
CM Bugti’s Firm Stand
CM Bugti reiterated that the government remains committed to ensuring justice for the victims and will take strict action against those responsible. “Such acts of terrorism are unforgivable. We will not allow the enemies of peace to succeed,” he declared.
He assured the public that the government, along with security forces, is taking all necessary measures to eliminate terrorism and ensure the safety of citizens in Balochistan.
Security Challenges in Balochistan
Balochistan has long faced security threats due to insurgent activities, with militants frequently targeting civilians and security forces. The government has vowed to strengthen counterterrorism efforts, but incidents like these highlight the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect travelers and residents in the province.
