Balochistan attack: sessions judge Abdul Hakeem Ka…
District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard were killed in an armed attack while traveling toward Mastung from Quetta, officials confirmed on Thursday.
According to officials, Judge Kakar was traveling with Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari when unidentified armed men targeted their vehicles near Wali Khan crossing. The attack resulted in the deaths of Judge Kakar and his guard, while Judge Lashari and another person sustained injuries.
Balochistan Home Department officials said the injured victims were shifted to a hospital in Mastung for medical treatment. Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack and are collecting evidence from the crime scene.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti took notice of the incident and directed authorities to investigate all aspects of the attack. Officials said strict action would be taken if any negligence was found during security arrangements.
The provincial government described the attack as a targeted assault against the judicial community. Officials said such incidents were aimed at creating fear and challenging the authority of state institutions.
President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack and expressed grief over the deaths of the judge and his guard. He said the sacrifices of those killed in such attacks would not go in vain and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fighting terrorism.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the incident, saying such acts could not weaken the nation’s determination against terrorism. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.
The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in Balochistan, where several violent incidents have recently taken place. Just a day earlier, three people were killed and several others injured in an attack on a passenger bus in Mastung, while a bridge on the national highway was damaged in a separate incident.
Security forces have intensified operations across the province following a rise in militant activities. Authorities say counterterrorism efforts are continuing to restore peace and prevent further attacks.
The investigation into the killing of Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his guard remains ongoing, with security agencies working to identify and arrest those responsible.
