Woman Constable Among Two Police Personnel Killed in Balochistan Militant Attack
A tragic incident unfolded in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province on Monday, resulting in the deaths of two police personnel, including a woman constable, and injuries to three others during a violent shootout with militants. This marks a significant and distressing event in the militancy-hit region, particularly as it involved the targeting of a female officer during official duties.
Details of the Attack in Remote Bajoi
The attack occurred in Bajoi, a remote mountainous town located approximately 35 kilometers from Khuzdar city in Balochistan. According to Khuzdar Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Abdul Qudus, the police team was conducting a search of homes following a robbery complaint when militants, who were holed up in the area, opened fire on them. The woman police constable was identified as Malik Naz, while the other deceased was Head Constable Sami Ullah. Both were local residents of Khuzdar district, highlighting the personal toll on the community.
ASP Qudus explained the circumstances, stating, "The police team had to search homes, hence the lady constable was with them." This underscores the routine yet dangerous nature of police work in such volatile regions, where officers often face unexpected threats while performing their duties.
Response and Search Operation
In the aftermath of the attack, authorities have launched a comprehensive search operation to apprehend the perpetrators. The area is very remote, and police along with other Law Enforcement Agencies have started a search operation to arrest the attackers, said ASP Qudus. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet, but Balochistan has long been a site of insurgency by ethnic Baloch separatist groups, with violence intensifying in recent years.
Official Condemnation and Praise for Bravery
Provincial Home Minister Ziaullah Langove strongly condemned the attack and praised the bravery of the slain police personnel. In a statement, he said, "The sacrifices of police soldiers in the fight against terrorism are a matter of pride for the nation. Terrorists involved in targeting police soldiers will not be forgiven under any circumstances." He promised to bring the attackers to justice, reflecting the government's commitment to combating militancy in the province.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan, where police and other security forces continue to operate under high-risk conditions. The loss of Constable Malik Naz, in particular, highlights the increasing role and risks faced by women in law enforcement in conflict zones.
