QUETTA: In a shocking incident, journalist Abdul Latif Baloch was fatally shot by unidentified attackers in his home in the Mashkey area of Awaran district on Saturday morning. According to police reports, the assailants attempted to abduct Baloch, but he resisted, resulting in them opening fire and killing him instantly.
The attackers managed to escape the scene, evading capture as authorities launched an investigation into the crime.
Police have noted that Baloch was also affiliated with the Levies force, a local security unit. This tragic event is compounded by the fact that several years prior, Baloch’s son was kidnapped and later found dead in the same region, highlighting a deeply troubling pattern of violence affecting his family.
The killing has drawn widespread condemnation from various journalist organizations. The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) expressed its profound shock at the brutal murder, characterizing it as a stark reminder of the hazards faced by media professionals in the region. In a statement, PFUJ officials called for immediate action to investigate the crime, identify those responsible, and ensure their prosecution.
Additionally, the Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) described the attack as part of a larger effort to suppress independent journalism in Balochistan. BUJ leaders emphasized the need for enhanced protective measures for journalists, arguing that the ongoing threats and intimidation undermine press freedom and democracy.
In their statement, the BUJ highlighted the dedicated work of Baloch and raised serious concerns about the implications of his targeted killing for press freedom in the region. They stressed that journalists in Balochistan already operate under significant threat, and without swift government intervention, the situation could deteriorate further.
Both unions expressed solidarity with Baloch’s family and colleagues, reiterating their commitment to advocate for the rights and safety of journalists. They called on the Balochistan government to take decisive action to apprehend the culprits and ensure justice is served.
This incident underscores the precarious situation for journalists in sensitive areas of Pakistan, where the safety of media workers is increasingly at risk. The international community continues to watch closely as calls for accountability and reform within the region grow louder.
