A policeman was martyred during an armed attack on the office of the regional election commissioner in Turbat, Balochistan. According to Kech Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) Zia Mandokhel, unidentified assailants attempted to enter the election commissioner’s office located in the Zaraat area.
An intense exchange of gunfire ensued between the attackers and law enforcement personnel, leading to the tragic death of a dedicated police official identified as Namrooz. The assailants managed to escape the scene, leaving behind a heightened sense of insecurity and concern.
SSP Mandokhel confirmed that an investigation into the incident is currently underway, with law enforcement personnel maintaining a strong presence at the site.
This alarming event comes just a day after Balochistan Caretaker Chief Minister Mir Ali Mardan Khan Domki reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the security of election candidates and maintaining law and order in the province during the electoral process. The caretaker setup had previously announced enhanced measures to guarantee a peaceful and transparent general election in the region.
It is worth noting that this is not the first instance of violence surrounding the upcoming elections in Balochistan. Previously, PPP candidate Mir Asghar Rind survived a grenade attack in Turbat. Additionally, on January 15, the Government Model High School in Kharan was targeted during a training session for polling staff. Fortunately, no government officials or election staff were injured in that attack.
In response to the escalating security concerns, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar had constituted a seven-member committee on January 18. This committee is tasked with ensuring the smooth conduct of the upcoming general elections on February 8 and overseeing comprehensive security arrangements.
The recent spate of attacks underscores the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining a secure electoral environment in Balochistan, raising concerns about the safety of candidates and the general public as the election date approaches.
