• Home Minister Langove vows solution to traders’ security concerns
• Jaffar Express suspended for two days

QUETTA: A coalition of traders, transporters and mine owners in Balochistan postponed the second day of a province-wide strike late on Thursday after successful negotiations with government authorities, ending a massive shutdown over worsening security.

Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani, president of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, announced the postponement of Friday’s planned “wheel jam” and shutter-down strike.

The decision followed a late-night meeting with Additional Chief Secretary Home Hamza Shafqaat, Quetta Deputy Commissioner Mehrullah Badini and leaders of the Balochistan Business Alliance.

The breakthrough came hours after the strike completely cut off Balochistan from the rest of the country on Thursday.

All business activities and transport were suspended in Quetta and numerous other cities, including Gwadar, Chaman and Khuzdar.

Protesters had blocked all four national highways using heavy boulders, long-body trucks and oil tankers, halting all passenger and supply routes.

The business community launched the strike after attacks on vehicles carrying minerals intensified. Dozens of trucks have reportedly been set ablaze in several districts, causing millions of rupees in losses.

Provincial Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove, who attended the negotiations, thanked the alliance for calling off the strike. He directed that the business community’s issues be addressed immediately and promised to facilitate discussions with federal officials.

“Anti-state forces aim to achieve their malicious objectives by targeting installations, security forces, the business community and other sectors in Balochistan,” Langove said. “However, the state, the government, the business community and the public will collectively foil their plans.”

He acknowledged the government’s limitations but assured protesters of their commitment.

“The government does not possess a magic wand to solve every problem and difficulty instantly, but every possible effort is being made to resolve them,” Langove said.

Langove added that hostile countries are investing billions of dollars to undermine peace and order in the province, emphasising that everyone must unite to defeat terrorism.

Noting that protesting is a democratic right, Langove said he would ask the inspector general of police to meet with the business community soon.

Jaffar Express suspended

Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways suspended the Jaffar Express — the only train leaving Balochistan for Peshawar — for two days, citing “unavoidable reasons”.

Officials said the Quetta-bound service from Peshawar will now be restricted to Jacobabad and will not proceed into Balochistan. The Bolan Mail service from Quetta to Karachi and the Chaman Passenger Train had already been suspended.

Published in Dawn, June 12th, 2026

QUETTA: Unidentified armed men attacked police installations in Qila Abdullah, Pishin and Duki districts of Balochistan, martyring a policeman and injuring two others, police said on Wednesday.

Officials said a group of armed men riding motorcycles reached the Dolangi area of Qila Abdullah district and attacked the Gilo police check post with heavy weapons. They later set the check post on fire.

“The armed men launched the attack early in the morning,” confirmed Qila Abdullah Superintendent of Police Athar Rasheed, adding that no casualties were reported in the incident.

He said the assailants took away two AK-47 rifles, a private car parked at the police check post and a motorcycle.

The check post was badly damaged, with records and furniture completely gutted in the fire. Officials said a heavy contingent of police and security forces rushed to the area, but the attackers had escaped before their arrival. He added that a search operation was underway.

In a separate attack in Pishin’s Saranan area, assailants targeted the Sultan police station. According to reports, the attackers seized weapons from police personnel and later destroyed the building after planting explosives. Later, security forces launched a search operation in the area.

Officials further said a police station in the Duki area was also attacked by unidentified men on Tuesday night. A heavy exchange of fire took place between police and the assailants, resulting in the death of a police official identified as Syed Hassan Zarkoon.

Two other policemen, Muhammad Wali Zarkoon and Baloch Khan Luni, were injured in the attack.

Separately, police officials said armed men intercepted a convoy of six gas bowsers in the Mal area of Nushki district on Wednesday. After stopping the convoy, the assailants torched all six bowsers, which were empty and travelling to Taftan from where they were supposed to return to Iran.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026

The organiser of the alliance, Professor Abdul Quddus Kakar, said the province-wide protest would begin on Thursday (today). He added that a sit-in would be staged on June 15.

He criticised the government for what he described as its “failure to address the concerns of workers and ordinary citizens”.

The alliance demanded that the minimum wage be linked to inflation and raised significantly. It also called for the elimination of salary disparities between federal and provincial employees. The alliance further demanded equal pay and benefits for employees in the same grades.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026

According to data from the Sukkur Barrage Control Room on Wednesday, the total upstream inflow at Sukkur Barrage was recorded at 50,620 cusecs, while the total withdrawal stood at 32,120 cusecs.

Irrigation department sources and representatives of growers and millers stated that the combined water allocation for Sindh’s seven canals is 53,200 cusecs. With the actual supply at just 32,120 cusecs, Sindh is facing an overall shortage of 21,080 cusecs, or 39.6 per cent.

In contrast, upstream barrages and canal systems in Punjab continue to withdraw water well above their allocated share. Against an allocation of 44,000 cusecs, Punjab is currently drawing 53,394 cusecs — an excess of 9,394 cusecs, or 21.35pc. This continued over-withdrawal is directly reducing water availability downstream.

Barrage and canal breakdowns

The water distribution data across key canal systems paints a critical picture:

Right Bank Canals (Sukkur Barrage): North West (NW) Canal: Receiving 2,100 cusecs against an allocation of 4,260 cusecs (50.7pc shortage).Rice Canal: Receiving 5,300 cusecs against an allocation of 8,700 cusecs (39.1 pc shortage).Dadu Canal: Receiving only 860 cusecs against an allocation of 5,997 cusecs, marking the most critical deficit at 85.7 pc.

Left Bank Canals & Kotri Barrage: Nara Canal: Receiving 8,820 cusecs against an allocation of 13,037 cusecs (32.3 pc shortage).Khairpur Feeder East: Receiving 1,440 cusecs against an allocation of 2,150 cusecs (33pc shortage).Rohri Canal: Receiving 10,530 cusecs against an allocation of 15,541 cusecs (32.2pc shortage).Khairpur Feeder West: Receiving 1,160 cusecs against an allocation of 3,525 cusecs (67.1pc shortage).Kotri Barrage: Receiving 11,905 cusecs against an allocation of 26,900 cusecs (55.74pc shortage).

Impact on Balochistan

Under the 1991 Water Apportionment Accord, Balochistan is entitled to 2,200 cusecs through the North West Canal. However, because the total supply in the NW Canal has dropped to 2,100 cusecs, Balochistan is receiving less than its allocated share.

Prior to the 1991 accord, Balochistan’s share was 451 cusecs. In light of the Indus River System Authority (Irsa) Accord, Sindh now routes the revised 2,200 cusecs to the neighboring province. Flows are monitored at the Garang Cross Regulator, located at RD-102 of the Khirthar/North Western Canal near the Sindh-Balochistan border, which serves as the primary inter-provincial control and measurement point.

Official demands for equitable distribution

Well-placed sources confirmed that irrigation officials formally communicated the severe deficit on Wednesday to the chief engineer of the Barrage Management Unit.

The correspondence highlighted that the 85.7pc shortage in the Dadu Canal and the 50.7 pc shortage in the NW Canal are severely impacting the districts of Larkana, Shikarpur, and Qambar-Shahdadkot, alongside downstream areas in Balochistan.

The communication — which was also sent to the secretary irrigation Sindh, secretary (technical) irrigation, and the director of regulation —called for immediate steps to ensure equitable distribution. Officials warned that the current scarcity poses an acute threat to seasonal crops, particularly rice production.

Agro-economic threat to Larkana

The water crisis threatens a vital economic hub. According to Khair Muhammed Shaikh, president of the Larkana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Larkana Division is a leading rice-producing region.

“Larkana District alone produces around 242,000 metric tons of rice annually. The division contributes approximately Rs90 billion per year in foreign exchange from rice production alone. Furthermore, out of 650 rice mills in Sindh, nearly 500 are located in the Larkana region, underscoring its central role in agro-processing and trade.”

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026

The strike, called by the Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal), drew a strong response from business community, with major commercial centres and malls staying closed in Quetta.

Similar closures were witnessed in other towns and cities, including Khuzdar, Kalat, Wadh, Dalbandin, Kharan, Sibi, Dera Murad Jamali, Turbat, Panjgur, Pasni, Jaffarabad, Nall, Basima, Jiwani, Washuk, Lasbela, and Hub.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026

QUETTA: Former senator Nawabzada Haji Lashkari Raisani on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in Balochistan, describing it as the most difficult period in the province’s history and calling for a united political and social response to address growing challenges.

Speaking at a press conference at the Quetta Press Club, Mr Raisani said the people of Balochistan were enduring severe hardship amid rising insecurity, economic difficulties and increasing incidents of violence. He alleged that certain forces were deliberately fostering instability in the province to create conditions that would enable the imposition of a particular state structure through force.

“Balochistan and its people are passing through the worst situation in their history,” he said, adding that the growing number of tragic incidents had caused widespread anxiety and mental distress among residents.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2026

He said Muharram was a month that taught unity, brotherhood and patience, adding that maintaining peace and order across the province remained the top priority of law enforcement agencies.

He made the remarks while chairing a video-link conference with all regional and district police officers at the Central Police Office, Quetta, regarding security arrangements for Muharram.

The IGP said a comprehensive security strategy had been finalised to maintain law and order across Balochistan. Under the plan, strict checking would be carried out at all entry and exit points of major cities, while special traffic management plans would be implemented to ensure smooth traffic flow.

He said procession routes would be thoroughly swept and cleared after search operations, while shops, markets and plazas along the routes would be sealed where necessary.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2026

An FIR was registered on the complaint of Zarif Khan Gorgage, the brother of deceased Muhammad Asif, on charges of murder, abetment of murder, and suicide. S&GAD under secretary Aftab Ahmad Jubal, his wife, driver Masood Ahmed Mengal, and Small Industries Director Iqbal were booked in the case.

The complainant alleged that his brother Muhammad Asif had been subjected to continuous harassment, blackmail and psychological pressure by the nominated individuals.

The Balochistan government suspended Jubal and Ahmed, who was later arrested.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2026

The military’s media wing said that on June 8, intelligence reports were received regarding terrorists belonging to “Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan, in Naal area of District Basima, Balochistan”.

The state has designated Balochistan-based terrorist groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

The terrorists were reportedly planning an attack on a nearby police station and banks in the general area, added the ISPR.

“On receipt of the information, swift action was undertaken by security forces and an intelligence-based operation was launched to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists.”

The military elaborated that during the operation, the movement of “terrorists was effectively checked and engaged by own forces punitively”.

“After [an] intense fire exchange, 14 Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell, while multiple terrorists were injured.”

Security forces also destroyed four vehicles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the operation.

However, Lance Havildar Muhammad Abbas was martyred after fighting gallantly with the terrorists and paying the ultimate sacrifice, the military’s media wing said.

“Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored terrorists found in the area. Relentless counter terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” the ISPR added.

On June 5, security forces killed six terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Panjgur district, the military’s media affairs wing said.

During the last week of May, security forces killed 17 terrorists during IBOs in different districts of Balochistan following the suicide attack on a train in Quetta. The IBOs were conducted in the districts of Mastung, Nushki, Khuzdar and Kech.

The operations come as the state intensifies its counter-terrorism operations amid a tense security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to police, Muhammad Asif, son of Musa Khan, who was an employee of the Civil Secretariat, also recorded a video message before killing himself, his wife and the four children.

In the video, which immediately went viral on social media, Asif accused two senior officers of the Balochistan Secretariat of putting pressure on him and threatening him to vacate the house which was allotted to him by the provincial government and in which he was living with the family for the last several years. In the video, he appealed to Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and other senior government officials to take notice of the matter which forced him to take this extreme step.

Taking immediate notice of the tragic incident, the chief minister ordered an inquiry into the matter and arrest all those officials named by the deceased in the video clip.

Police identified other victims of Asif’s family as Bibi Zainab, wife, 14-year-old Huzaifa, 12-year-old Hoorain, six-year-old Alina, and one-and-a-half-year-old Maharna.

Balochistan government officials said that based on the deceased’s video statement, several government officials have been taken into custody for questioning, including Under Secretary Aftab Jabal, Director of Industries Iqbal Sarparah and Saeed Mengal.

Published in Dawn, June 9th, 2026

Lala Israfeel, a reporter for a private TV channel, was outside his shop in the town of Musakhail when attackers on a motorcycle opened fire, killing him at the scene, police said.

Israfeel suffered multiple gunshot wounds, according to officials at the district hospital where his body was shifted. Later, the authorities handed over the body to his family and registered a murder case.

The motive for the attack remains unclear, and police said Israfeel had reported no recent threats. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the killing.

The Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) condemned the attack, stating the murder has caused “serious concern and distress within the journalistic community”.

In a joint statement, BUJ President Manzoor Ahmed Rind and General Secretary Shah Hussain Tareen expressed their grief and demanded immediate action from Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti and Provincial Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove.

It called for investigation from all angles, determine the motives behind the killing, and bring those responsible to justice at the earliest. The organisation will soon announce its future course of action regarding the incident.

Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026

According to officials, an explosive device planted by Mand Road exploded when a private construction company vehicle was passing through the Kalatak Cross area of Turbat. Three people died on the spot while another man sustained injuries in the blast, they said.

Police and security personnel rushed to the site and shifted the bodies and injured to Turbat district hospital. The bodies were handed over to their families after completing legal procedures.

In the Gulistan area of Qila Abdullah district, meanwhile, two people were killed in celebratory fire at a wedding ceremony. The deceased were later identified as Hikmat Ullah and Ehsanullah.

Two killed in celebratory fire in Qila Abdullah

Separately, some motorcyclists hurled a hand grenade near a bakery in the Killi Brahimzai area of Wadh. The grenade exploded causing severe damage to the shop. While no casualties were reported, the explosion spread fear among area people. Local authorities later launched a search operation.

A police constable was wounded in an exchange of fire with suspects during a raid conducted to apprehend members of a motorcycle-snatching gang in the Killi Kamalo area on the outskirts of Quetta.

The Shalkot police, however, managed to arrest three suspects who were wounded in the clash. According to the police, the raid was conducted on the information provided by the previously held suspects.

During the operation, however, the suspects opened fire on police, prompting retaliatory action. In the exchange of fire, three suspects were injured and taken into custody. The police constable, Muhammad Bilal, also sustained injuries.

Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026

The two smaller provinces have been expressing their strong reservations over “unfair” deduction in their share of the Indus water while Punjab continues to draw in excess of its allocated quantum.

Kotri Barrage reported 57pc reduction in flows on June 7 as Sindh’s overall deficit in flows rose from 22pc to 39pc within the last fortnight while Punjab, through its controversial Chashma-Jhelum (CJ) link canal keeps withdrawing more water than Kotri.

Balochistan has also come up with 71pc reduction in its share from Sukkur Barrage’s right bank canal on Saturday.

Shortage in Sindh worsens to 39pc while Balochistan gets 71pc less flows

The Balochistan irrigation department has taken up the issue with Irsa, pressing it to settle it with Sindh authorities in order to ensure its required share of 2,000 cusecs at GarangRegulator of North Western Canal (NWC). Balochistan is receiving just 571 cusecs, indicating 71pc lesser flows than its allocated share.

Controversial move

Irsa had recently announced that it was “adjusting excessive use of water by Sindh and trying to equalise shortages between Punjab and Sindh by June 10”. Sindh has strongly opposed the move but the issue has remained undecided in Irsa till date.

Sindh argues that the “flows supplied to Sindh on account of rainfall in the river system should not be deducted from its provincial share under the Water Accord 1991.

In an identical scenario, wrote an irrigation department official, such flows were utilised as ‘flood flows’ in Punjab and Sindh alike in 2024. These flows were accordingly adjusted by Irsa, instead of being deducted against share of each province, according to one assessment.

Given the water flows recorded on June 7 (Sunday), Kotri barrage topped in water shortage figures with 57pc, followed by Sukkur’s 37pc and Guddu’s 27pc.

When compared with shortage in Punjab’s canals downstream Chashma, Punjab had reported only 2.1pc shortage on June 4, otherwise the province got surplus water invariably between 4.5pc and 6.7pc from June 1 to 5 (barring June 4).

Link canals

The controversial link canals — Chashma-Jhelum (CJ) and Taunsa Panjnad (TP) — continued to draw water. It would be interesting to note that while Sindh’s water shortage trajectory continues to record an upward trend, CJ link canal alone was drawing flows more than the quantum being drawn at Kotri Barrage as of June 5. CJ Canal received 16,470 cusecs flows when Kotri got 11,645 cusecs against allocated share of 26,900 as per the 1991 Water Accord.

When Sindh submitted an indent of 130,000 cusecs on May 26, Irsa was releasing 115,000 cusecs downstream Chashma till June 3. The 115,000 cusecs flow was inclusive of the share of Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan’s canals. “Out of 115,000 cusecs, Punjab received / diverted its share at Indus for Taunsa-Panjnad link canal, Muzaffargarh and Dera Ghazi Khan canals. Rest of the flows headed for Sindh’s barrages,” said an expert after analysing discharges in the system.

Expert’s view

Explaining the situation, he quoted one of Irsa’s flows-related communication to Sindh. He pointed out that this communication showed Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan would receive 24,000 cusecs, 90,000 cusecs and 11,000 cusecs, respectively, from June 1, taking total quantum to 125,000 cusecs whereas actual releases stood at 115,000 cusecs, showing a deficit of 10,000 cusecs.

As per the fixed share, Punjab withdrew 11,894 cusecs for TP link canal, 7,300 cusecs for Muzaffargarh and 6,500 cusecs for Dera Ghazi Khan canal, totaling 25,694 cusecs till June 5 which was over and above the share (24,000 cusecs) fixed by Irsa, thus recording 7.1pc more withdrawal by Punjab.

Irsa, however, increased releases from June 4 by providing 138,000 cusecs below Chashma Barrage whilst Sindh’s indent of 130,000 cusecs at Chashma remained unchanged. Out of the 138,000 cusecs, Punjab’s share was fixed at 26,000 cusecs, Sindh’s 100,000 cusecs and Balochistan’s 12,000 cusecs from June 7.

Till June 7, 138,000 cusecs releases at Chashma stood unchanged and by that time Sindh submitted an increased indent of 145,000 cusecs, considering requirement of canals of three barrages in Kharif. “Irsa should have released 183,000 cusecs below Chashma to meet Sindh’s indent of 145,000 cusecs so that Balochistan’s share is also met. But shortage in Sindh keeps increasing with each passing day,” said a source.

A lesser flow of 24.6pc is being released by Irsa considering indent of Sindh.

Pond level at Sukkur

Balochistan gets its share from Sukkur and Guddu Barrages. At Guddu, the share was released from Pat Feeder and NWC’s Kirthar Canal of Sukkur Barrage. For ensuring required flows to Balochistan, the Sukkur Barrage authorities needed a pond level of 199.5ft. It is currently 194.9ft — much below the required level.

The authorities hold flows to certain level to ensure required releases from the barrages in the right bank canal including NWC, which itself is reporting a reduction of 51pc at its head. This means the situation is bound to affect the entire system of the canal when the flows reach the Garang Regulator.

On June 6, Pat Feeder Canal SE Dera Murad Jamali sent a communication to the Irsa secretary complaining that arbitrary and continuous reduction in water supplies has seriously affected operational activities of Balochistan irrigation department and such actions were contrary to spirit of the Water Accord 1991.

“The matter may be taken up on an urgent basis with competent authorities of Sindh government to discontinue unjustified reductions and ensure full and equitable supply of Balochistan’s allocated share at Garang at RD-102 of Kirther canal,” he said.

Dams being filled

While shortages continued, water was being stored in Mangla Dam by Irsa despite a severe shortage in the peak Kharif season in Sindh. The dam’s level stood at 1,170ft against maximum level of 1,242ft. Water was stored in Tarbela Dam, whose level stood at 1453.3ft against maximum storage level of 1,550ft. Tarbela is the principal source of water supply to Sindh.

Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026

On Saturday, a female doctor, Mahnoor Nisar, was seriously injured at the Civil Hospital when an employee of the facility allegedly threw acid on her, police said. The doctor suffered severe burn injuries to her face, chest, legs and other parts of her body.

According to police, the man who threw acid on Dr Nisar was killed in an encounter after law enforcers traced him to the area from where he attempted to flee by a bus.

The CCTV footage of the incident shows a man trying to help Dr Nisar, as she came running out of a room after the attack, by covering her up with what appears to be his jacket.

In a post on X, CM Bugti said Abdul Razzaq Tarakai, who is also an employee at the Civil Hospital, “displayed extraordinary courage, humanity, and dedication” by coming to Dr Mahnoor’s help and would be given a civil award.

Commending his efforts, the chief minister said, “Such brave and valiant individuals are the assets of our society and set an example of serving humanity even in the most difficult circumstances”.

Separately, MNA Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari also condemned the attack and shared that she has requested President Asif Ali Zardari to confer the highest civilian award on Tarakai for his “selfless gallantry”, as per a statement by the President’s Secretariat.

“His timely and courageous intervention not only saved a precious life but also stands as an inspiring example of humanity for the entire nation,” she was quoted as saying.

According to the statement, Aseefa said that violence against women had no place in society, calling for it to be dealt with “full force of law“.

“The relevant authorities must ensure that such incidents are curbed in the future,” she said.

Dr Nisar was taken to Karachi after initial treatment in Quetta, and she is currently being treated at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH).

Hospital sources told Dawn that her condition is currently stable.

She has bilateral corneal opacities — a condition in which the clear surface of the eye becomes scarred — but her vision remains preserved, the sources said, adding that the plastic surgeon and ophthalmologist had been consulted to examine her.

The sources further said that the burns appear superficial, but a detailed assessment was awaited.

Meanwhile, Tarakai was discharged from a private hospital in Quetta, where he was being treated for his burn injuries.

Earlier, a senior official of Quetta’s Civil Hospital told Dawn that he also spoke with CM Bugti over the phone.

Additional reporting by Imran Ayub and Saleem Shahid

In Gwadar district, police recovered two bodies near Charbandan Cross on the Makran Coastal Hig­h­­­­­­way in the Pasni area. The decea­­sed were identified as Ustad Muh­a­­­­­m­­­mad Siraj Kalanchi and Sardal.

In a separate incident in Kech district, police recovered the body of a man from the Khaddan area of Dasht. The deceased was identified as Ataullah. The body was shifted to the district hospital for necessary formalities.

Meanwhile, two men were killed in an exchange of fire in the Rekho Jantro area, near the Punjab-Balochistan border in Dera Bugti district.

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2026

Speaking at a press conference here alongside senior BNP-M leaders, Mr Mengal said the killing of the party’s district vice-president, Sardarzada Khalil Ahmed Musiani, and the arrest of several members of the Musiani family represented a grave violation of both political and tribal traditions.

He alleged that security personnel raided the residence of tribal elder and BNP-M leader Sardar Nasir Ahmed Musiani, violated the sanctity of the home, assaulted family members, and shot his son in front of him. He later died after allegedly being denied timely medical treatment.

“Authorities claim that peace prevails in Balochistan. Is this their idea of peace… that a son is killed in front of his father and family members are not even allowed to attend his funeral?” Mr Mengal questioned.

Mengal slams killing of party leader, arrest of family members

He said the BNP-M’s central committee had extensively discussed the Zehri incident and described it as part of a broader pattern of political pressure against the party.

According to Mr Mengal, BNP-M leaders and workers had faced raids, arrests and harassment under successive governments and administrations.

He further alleged that several members of the Musiani family were taken into custody and rem­ain detained. He expressed concern for their safety and demanded their immediate release.

He criticised the authorities for allegedly preventing relatives from attending funeral rites and warned that further cases could be registered against those already detained.

The BNP-M chief also referred to ongoing displacement efforts in pa­­r­­­ts of Balochistan, saying residents were being asked to leave their homes, farms and businesses without any clear resettlement plan.

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2026

A senior official of the Civil Hospital told Dawn that the doctor suffered severe burn injuries to her face, chest, legs and other parts of her body. He added that she was shifted to a private hospital immediately after initial treatment at the Civil Hospital, and that arrangements were being made to transfer her to Karachi via air ambulance.

Hospital sources said around 70 per cent of her body was affected in the incident.

The suspect, who allegedly committed the act, escaped from the hospital after throwing acid on the doctor.

According to police, the accused was killed in an encounter after law enforcers traced him to the area from where he was attempting to flee by bus.

Police said they asked the suspect to surrender, but he instead opened fire on the police party. The police retaliated, and in the exchange of fire, the accused was killed.

“The accused was killed in a police encounter while attempting to escape from Quetta by bus,” DIG Quetta Imran Shaukat said.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and Health Minister Bakht Kakar took serious notice of the incident and strongly condemned the attack.

Bugti directed the relevant health authorities to provide all available resources for the best possible treatment of the injured doctor.

QUETTA: Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Emir Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that his party has worked to unite the nation against sectarianism and ethnic divisions, while certain forces have sou­ght to divide the people of the country.

“Muslim countries, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkiye, Iran, Indonesia, and Malaysia, should establish a strong Islamic bloc that could lead broader Asian cooperation,” the JUI-F chief suggested.

Addressing a conference on the “Rights of Balochistan and Pro­tection of Madressahs” in Pishin, he said that despite repeated military operations against terrorism, the problem has continued to grow and requires collective efforts to combat a menace that has claimed hundreds of lives.

A large number of JUI-F workers, leaders, and supporters from across the province gathered at the newly constructed sports complex in Pishin. Provincial Emir Senator Maulana Abdul Wasey, Opposition Leader in the Balochistan Assembly Mir Younas Aziz Zehri, Maulana Salahuddin Ayubi, Senator Kamran Murtaza Advocate, and other JUI-F members of the assemblies were also present at the conference.

He criticised border closures, saying they had severely damaged the country’s economy. He argued that the establishment, bureaucracy, and an ineffective foreign policy had left Pakistan isolated. He also said that all attempts to recognise Israel would be foiled.

The JUI-F chief expressed concern over the Pakistan Peoples Party’s silence regarding the protection of the Constitution and the 18th Amendment.

He also criticised the government for failing to effectively run public schools while imposing restrictions on seminaries. He reiterated that his party does not accept what it considers “rigged assemblies” and called for major Islamic countries to form a strong and united bloc. He further stated that the outdated practice of labelling patriotic citizens as traitors simply because they disagree with the establishment must come to an end.

He said that the large gathering in Pishin reflected the people’s growing confidence in the party. “No power in the world can break the bond between JUI-F and its supporters, and this relationship will continue to strengthen,” Fazl said.

Referring to the role of state institutions, he said that if they were truly innocent, they deserve praise, but where policies were flawed, criticism would continue. He stressed that the JUI-F would never accept pressure from the bureaucracy or the establishment when it conflicted with the interests of the people and the country.

Fazl noted that Pakistan has been fighting terrorism for four decades.

He argued that despite these efforts, terrorism had continued to worsen, causing significant damage to the country and creating public frustration.

Referring to actions taken against religious seminaries, he pledged to resist all such measures. He argued that militants had also been found in universities, colleges, schools, and hostels, yet similar actions had not been taken against those institutions.

Published in Dawn, June 6th, 2026

In a statement, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that on the night of June 3/4, security forces conducted an IBO on the reported presence of terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan.

The state has designated Balochistan-based terrorist groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

“During the conduct of [the] operation, own forces effectively engaged multiple terrorist locations, and after intense fire exchanges, six Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” it said.

“Weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and [a] vehicle have also been recovered from the killed Indian-sponsored terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area,” it said.

“Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored terrorist found in the area,” it added.

It added that a counterterrorism campaign by security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari commended security forces for conducting the successful operation. In a statement, the president said the elimination of the six terrorists marked “an important step toward establishing peace” in the country.

He further stated that “Fitna al-Hindustan and its facilitators will not succeed in undermining Pakistan’s peace and stability”.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the security forces for their successful operation.

In a statement, he expressed Pakistan’s commitment to completely eradicating terrorism from the country.

Earlier this week, security forces killed 17 terrorists during IBOs in different districts of Balochistan following the suicide attack on a train in Quetta. The IBOs were conducted in the districts of Mastung, Nushki, Khuzdar and Kech.

• Calls for empowering parliament to address national issues effectively
• Advocates reopening border trade routes to create job opportunities for locals

QUETTA: Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mehmood Khan Achakzai expressed concern on Thursday over the country’s deteriorating political and security situation, stating that Pakistan’s crises were more internal than external.

Addressing a news conference at the Quetta Press Club, Mr Achakzai, who is also chairman of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), urged all state institutions to operate strictly within their constitutional limits and ensure the supremacy of the Constitution.

He said parliament must be empowered to resolve national issues effectively, adding that border closures should be reconsidered and trade routes reopened to provide employment opportunities for local communities. “Problems cannot be resolved through the use of force; dialogue is the only way forward,” he said.

Mr Achakzai reiterated that Pakistan is a multi-ethnic country and must be governed through democratic principles in which power rests with the people. He said restricting political leaders or suppressing dialogue would further aggravate tensions.

He also stressed that the Baloch and Pakhtun communities, if united on the basis of equality, could transform the face of Balochistan.

The opposition leader contended that all ethnic groups must be granted full control over their resources to remove mistrust and ensure rights-based governance. “Every person wants ownership of their land and resources,” he added.

He questioned the creation of new districts and divisions without public consent, saying such measures deepen divisions. He stressed that injustice increases resentment, whereas equality among communities can transform Balochistan into a model of peace and development.

On border trade, he criticised restrictions at the Chaman crossing and questioned incidents involving the burning of vehicles, saying it was the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prevent such acts. “If the state cannot function, then who will protect the oppressed?” he remarked.

He added that if the authorities fail to maintain order despite spending billions of rupees, local communities should be empowered with greater resources and authority. He claimed that crime and violence are pushing the region towards instability and warned of worsening consequences if the situation persists.

Referring to governance challenges, he said IMF funds and national resources should be accounted for transparently and questioned development disparities among different regions. He also criticised administrative inefficiency, alleging that citizens’ complaints are often ignored by officials.

He urged all stakeholders — including political forces, state institutions, and communities — to work jointly towards peace, equality, and stability in Balochistan and across the country.

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2026

A consultative meeting was held, presided over by Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) President Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani. The meeting was largely attended by representatives of various associations and unions, who unanimously decided to form a joint committee comprising all stakeholders to address the issues and engage with the government.

The meeting warned that if immediate measures are not taken to compensate losses and ensure protection, they may be forced to launch protests.

Mariani, while speaking at the meeting, said he had already taken up the matter with the prime minister, highlighting road blockades and the burning of transport vehicles in Balochistan. He said the prime minister had assured that a high-powered delegation would be sent to resolve the issues.

He added that initial efforts would focus on reopening highways; however, if the situation does not improve, a future course of action would be decided collectively. “This issue concerns the entire province; therefore, all stakeholders will be given representation in the committee,” he said, adding that the QCCI would extend full support.

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2026

Addressing a press conference, BNP-Mengal Senior Vice President Advocate Sajid Tareen alleged that following a clash between security for­c­es and armed elements in the Bulbul area of Zehri, personnel entered the residence of Sardar Naseer Ahmed Musiani.

He claimed that Sardar Naseer and his son, Mir Khalil Zehri, were injured during the raid, and were taken into custody. He alleged that the two were being detained in a school building in Bulbul Cross, which has been turned into a detention centre.

The BNP leader claimed that following the arrests, locals who staged protests were also detained, although some women were later released. Sardar Naseer, however, has been shifted to an undisclosed location, he said.

Condemning the action, Advocate Tareen said it violated the sanctity of the home and said such actions were unacceptable under any circumstances. He demanded the immediate release of all detained individuals, including Sardar Naseer Ahmed Musiani and his sons.

He warned that if the detainees were not released, the BNP would launch province-wide protests on June 4.

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2026

According to police, armed men belonging to the Nusratzai tribe took positions against each other in the Do-Bandi area and exchanged fire using automatic weapons.

The heavy firing continued for more than an hour, leaving five people dead on the spot and one injured. Soon after receiving information about the clash, police and security personnel rushed to the site and shifted the bodies and the injured to a nearby health facility.

Hospital officials said the deceased had sustained multiple bullet wounds, which caused their deaths. The bodies were handed over to their families after the completion of medico-legal formalities.

The deceased were identified as Muhammad Usman, Qudratullah, Israr Ahmed, Muhammad Tahir and Najeebullah.

Police said the clash erupted over a dispute regarding the ownership of land in the Do-Bandi area, near the Afghan border.

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2026

Officials said unidentified gunmen opened fire late on Sunday night at a hotel in Mezi Adda, killing five tribesmen and injuring two others.

Police and personnel of other law enforcement agencies rushed to the site after receiving information about the firing and shifted the bodies and injured to the district hospital.

Hospital officials confirmed five deaths and identified the deceased as Dad Mohammad, Abdul Mateen, Abdul Jabbar, Mohammad Raza and Islam. All belonged to local tribes. Two others, Syed Jafar and Syed Jameel Ahmad, sustained injuries in the attack.

Bereaved family blocks Quetta-Chaman Highway in protest, disrupting traffic

Family members of the deceased also reached the hospital, took custody of the bodies and staged a protest by placing the bodies on the Quetta-Chaman Highway, blocking the road and suspending traffic.

Hundreds of vehicles, including trucks, cars and passenger coaches, were stranded on both sides of the highway. Long queues of vehicles were witnessed as the blockade cut off Chaman and Qila Abdullah districts from the rest of Balochistan.

Tribal elders, as well as leaders and workers of political parties, joined the protest sit-in. Residents of the area placed heavy boulders and barricades on the highway, preventing traffic from moving and causing severe difficulties for travellers commuting between Quetta and Chaman.

The protesters chanted slogans against the administration and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the attack.

Negotiations were later held with the protesters by senior officials and political leaders.

Following successful talks, the protesters called off the sit-in and dispersed peacefully. The Quetta-Chaman National Highway was subsequently reopened to traffic.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, while efforts are underway to trace and arrest those involved in the deadly shooting.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2026

They urged the government to reconsider its decision and restore the historical and geographical status of both areas.

The grand jirga was held at the residence of Sardar Kamal Khan Bangulzai and was attended by tribal chiefs, elders of Sarawan, and political leaders representing various political parties.

A joint declaration was issued after deliberations, during which the tribal elders and political leaders strongly opposed the proposed abolition of Kalat division and the plan to merge Mastung into Quetta division. They also rejected the proposal to remove Kachhi (Bolan) from Nasirabad division and attach it to Sibi division.

The jirga demanded that Mastung remain part of the historic Kalat division alongside Kalat and Surab, while Bhag and Kachhi should continue to remain within Nasirabad division.

The declaration rejected the proposed administrative changes and called upon the government to review its decisions. The leaders warned that if their demands were not accepted, a grand council comprising tribal and political leaders would formulate a future course of action. To pursue the matter, the jirga formed an empowered council consisting of tribal chiefs, political representatives, legal experts, and members of civil society.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2026

According to officials, tribal elder Haji Abdul Bari Reki was critically wounded when unidentified assailants opened fire on him in the Dalbandin market.

He was immediately shifted to a hospital for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds.

In the aftermath of the incident, police said, relatives of the deceased allegedly opened fire and injured Mohammad Arif Reki.

He was provided initial medical treatment before being shifted to a hospital, they added.

Police officials said both parties belong to the same tribe and had been involved in a dispute. However, the exact motive for the shooting has yet to be officially confirmed.

Law enforcement agencies and the local administration have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing and the retaliatory attack.

No arrests had been reported till late Monday night. Officials said efforts were under way to establish the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2026