The Balochistan government has linked the province’s low conviction rate in terrorism cases to persistent threats against members of the judiciary. According to Home Minister Mir Zia Lango, judges and their families continue to face intimidation after delivering verdicts in terrorism-related cases.
The minister said the provincial government is reviewing security arrangements and preparing new legislation to strengthen judicial protection. The move comes after a deadly attack that targeted members of the judiciary in Mastung.
Judges Face Serious Security Threats
Speaking about the province’s security situation, Mir Zia Lango said terrorists continue to target security personnel, civilians and public infrastructure.
He stated that such groups operate under the instructions of their “foreign masters.”
“Terrorists have no religion or nationality. They kill innocent people and continue to target security personnel, civilians and state institutions,” he said.
The minister also referred to recent attacks in which civilians lost their lives, including women travelling on a passenger bus. He added that members of the judiciary have now become targets as well.
“Judges and their family members face serious threats from terrorists,” Lango said.
According to the minister, these threats discourage convictions in terrorism cases and remain one of the biggest challenges facing the justice system.
Government Plans Stronger Legal Protection
Lango acknowledged that the conviction rate in terrorism-related cases remains critically low across the province.
He explained that judges often receive threats after convicting terrorism suspects. Consequently, the provincial government is working to improve their protection.
“Legislation is being introduced to enhance the protection of judges and strengthen the legal framework to combat terrorism,” he said.
The minister added that authorities have already held several high-level meetings to review the situation. Furthermore, additional security measures are being considered for judges across Balochistan.
He also confirmed that Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti chaired an important meeting on Friday to assess the province’s overall security environment.
Attack on Judiciary Raises Fresh Concerns
The government’s remarks follow a deadly attack on members of the judiciary near Wali Khan Bypass in Mastung.
According to police, unidentified armed men opened fire on a vehicle carrying judicial officers who were travelling from Quetta to Mastung.
The attack claimed the life of Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard. Meanwhile, Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari sustained injuries during the incident.
The attack has intensified concerns about the security of judicial officers handling sensitive terrorism cases.
Government Condemns Attack
The Balochistan government strongly condemned the attack and directed authorities to take decisive action against those responsible.
Government spokesperson Shahid Rind described the incident as a planned act of terrorism.
“Terrorists deliberately targeted the judiciary. Two judges were attacked, and one embraced martyrdom,” Rind said.
He further stated that attacks on judges and law enforcement personnel represent an attempt to challenge the writ of the state.
Security Review Underway
Provincial authorities are now reviewing existing security arrangements for judges while considering additional safeguards.
Officials believe stronger legal protection and improved security could help strengthen the prosecution of terrorism cases. At the same time, the government says protecting judicial officers remains essential for improving conviction rates and ensuring the effective administration of justice in Balochistan.
