DERA GHAZI KHAN – The bodies of nine passengers killed in a tragic terrorist attack in Balochistan were sent to their native towns across Punjab on Friday. Civil and military officials received the bodies before dispatching them to cities including Lahore, Gujrat, Khanewal, Gujranwala, Lodhran, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Muzaffargarh.
The victims were traveling on a bus from Quetta to Lahore when terrorists linked to the banned Fitna-ul-Hindustan group stopped the vehicle in Zhob district. After checking identities, they abducted and executed nine passengers, including two brothers who were heading to attend their father’s funeral.
Among the victims was Sabir, a long-time employee of a food center in Gujranwala, who supported his family of four children. Others included Muhammad Irfan of D.G. Khan, Muhammad Junaid of Lahore, Muhammad Bilal of Attock, Bilawal of Gujrat, and several more innocent citizens whose only fault was being at the wrong place at the wrong time.
President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the barbaric act, calling it a heinous attempt to destabilize Pakistan. He vowed to eliminate Fitna-ul-Hindustan and all those who support such terror, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to ending terrorism completely.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed the president’s sentiments, labeling the attack as a blatant act of terrorism. He assured the nation that the blood of innocent people would not go unavenged and promised strong retaliation against those responsible.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, calling it a heartbreaking tragedy. She assured the families of the victims that the state stands with them and all efforts will be made to ensure justice is served.