Ziarat Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Afzal Baqi and his son, abducted while on a picnic nearly a month ago, have been killed by their captors, the provincial government announced on Sunday, vowing justice for the victims.
According to Ziarat Deputy Commissioner Zakaullah Durrani, Baqi and his son were abducted and transported to an unknown location after unidentified suspects stopped their vehicle at gunpoint, ordered everyone to get off, and set the vehicle on fire. He said the attackers had released Baqi’s gunman, driver and other family members but forced the official and his son to go with them.
On Aug. 13, he said, a search operation was launched to locate the two men, and local elders of various tribes were also contacted to use their influence to get the officer released.
Thus far, said Durrani, no organization or group has claimed responsibility. The bodies of the slain officer and son were dumped in a mountainous area.
In a statement, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the incident, stressing the martyred assistant commissioner had laid down his life while fulfilling his duty. “Those who kill innocent people and disrupt peace will not escape their fate,” he vowed.
Describing Afzal as a dedicated, hardworking, and capable officer, Bugti said his sacrifice for the nation would always be remembered. He also conveyed heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family.
Balochistan Governor Jaffar Mandokhail similarly expressed deep sorrow over the killing of the officer and his son, saying their sacrifice would not go in vain. He urged law enforcement agencies to apprehend those involved and bring them to justice. “We share the grief and pain of the bereaved family,” read his statement.