Gunmen in Pakistan’s Balochistan province shot and killed 20 miners, injuring several others days before the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. The attackers, armed with rocket launchers and hand grenades, targeted a coal mine, with suspicion falling on the Balochistan Liberation Army. The attack drew condemnation from government officials, with concerns rising about security for the summit.
Balochistan, home to separatist groups, has seen a surge in attacks, including the killing of over 50 people in August. The federal government has faced accusations of unfair exploitation of the province’s resources, leading to tensions and violence. Security measures have been heightened ahead of the summit to prevent further attacks by separatist groups and the Taliban.
The recent attack highlights the challenges in ensuring security in Balochistan and underscores the importance of addressing underlying grievances to prevent further violence. Despite the ongoing threats, efforts are being made to safeguard public spaces and government installations during the summit.
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