From Our Correspondent:
KARACHI: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti on Tuesday visited the Karachi residence of slain tourist Ali Murtaza, offered condolences to the bereaved family, and reiterated that there are no no-go areas in Balochistan despite the security challenges facing the province.
Speaking to the media after meeting the victim’s family, Bugti said the treatment meted out to guests was unacceptable and stressed that the writ of the state exists across every part of Balochistan.
“There are no no-go areas in Balochistan. The state’s writ is present everywhere, although our security forces continue to face serious challenges,” he said.
The chief minister added that identifying militants is not always straightforward.
“No one has ‘terrorist’ written on their forehead. Building a negative narrative after such incidents only weakens Pakistan and its institutions.”
Bugti announced that the Government of Balochistan would assume responsibility for the education, healthcare, and financial support of Ali Murtaza’s children.
He said the investigation into the killing is ongoing and urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions before the inquiry is completed.
According to preliminary findings, Ali Murtaza had been staying at a friend’s house and reportedly lost his way before the incident. Bugti said the complete facts would emerge once investigators finalize their report.
The chief minister assured the grieving family that the government is committed to ensuring justice and bringing those responsible to account.
