In a shocking incident, unidentified armed men kidnapped five employees of a gas pipeline company in DI Khan district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Thursday. The attack took place on the busy Dera–Zhob Road near Zarkanai. The armed assailants intercepted the company’s vehicle, which belonged to the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited Sar Dagar camp in Daraban, and forcibly abducted the staff members.
Identities of the Abducted Employees
Authorities confirmed that the kidnapped employees included foreman Khurshid, Khalid Mushtaq from Punjab, driver Ramzan, Adnan from Lakki Marwat, and Suraj Kumar, a Christian worker. These individuals were performing their duties as part of regular fieldwork when unknown gunmen stopped their vehicle. The sudden abduction has shocked their families and created a wave of deep concern within the local community.
Search Operation Launched by Police
Police officials said that a major search operation was immediately launched after the kidnapping was reported. Security checkpoints and roadblocks were quickly established across Daraban and the surrounding areas to locate the suspects. Despite swift action, the abductors managed to escape with the victims to an unknown location. The motive behind the kidnapping remains unclear, and authorities are investigating possible reasons.
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Fear and Panic Among Residents
The incident has spread fear and uncertainty among residents, who are already facing security concerns in the region. Many people expressed frustration over the rising law-and-order challenges and called for stronger protection. Families of the abducted workers have appealed to the government for immediate action. Local elders also urged officials to restore peace and ensure the safe return of the missing employees.
Government Urged to Ensure Safety
The kidnapping has highlighted once again the urgent need for effective security arrangements in DI Khan and other vulnerable areas. Residents stressed that such incidents not only put lives at risk but also harm economic activities. They demanded that the provincial and federal governments work together to strengthen law enforcement. Authorities have assured that every effort will be made to recover the kidnapped employees safely.