Deadly Attack on Duki Coal Mines in Balochistan Sparks Protests
In Quetta, Pakistan, a tragic incident occurred on Friday when armed men attacked coal mines in Duki, Balochistan, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 miners and injuries to seven others. This attack is the latest in a series of violent events in the mineral-rich region bordering Afghanistan and Iran.
Details of the Attack
Humayun Khan, the police station house officer, reported that the attackers used heavy weapons, including rockets and grenades, during the early hours of Friday. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.
Community Response
Following the attack, citizens protested at Bacha Khan Chowk, displaying the bodies of the deceased miners. Traders in the district declared a shutdown strike, closing all trade centers and markets in Duki to condemn the violence.
Casualties and Medical Response
The bodies and injured were taken to Teaching Hospital Loralai. Initially, two fatalities were reported, but the death toll rose to 20, as confirmed by Medical Officer Dr. Johar Sadozai. The deceased included miners from Pishin, Qila Saifullah, Kuchlak, and Afghanistan.
Impact on the Region
Coal mine owner Haji Khairullah Nasir stated that the attackers also set machinery on fire. Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has experienced increased militant attacks, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Doubts Revealed
Duki -: Duki is a district in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It is known for its coal mines, where many people work to extract coal from the ground.
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a province in Pakistan. It is the largest province by area and is located in the southwestern part of the country. It is known for its natural resources, including coal.
Coal Mines -: Coal mines are places where coal, a type of fossil fuel used for energy, is extracted from the earth. Miners work in these mines to dig out the coal.
Rockets and Grenades -: Rockets and grenades are types of weapons. Rockets are explosive projectiles that can be launched over long distances, while grenades are small bombs that can be thrown by hand.
Protests -: Protests are public demonstrations where people gather to express their strong opinions or dissatisfaction about something. In this case, people protested against the attack on the coal mines.
Shutdown Strike -: A shutdown strike is when businesses and shops close down as a form of protest. It is a way for people to show their disagreement or demand action from authorities.
Taliban -: The Taliban is a group that has been in power in Afghanistan. They are known for their strict rules and have been involved in conflicts in the region.
