Five labourers were killed in a targeted attack in Balochistan's Washuk district, where armed men opened fire on workers at a shop in the Mashkel area.Police confirmed the victims, who had travelled from outside the province, were unarmed and the incident is under investigation.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack, calling it a 'sinister intention' by terrorists to spread fear and destabilize Pakistan.He vowed 'decisive action' against those challenging state authority.The provincial government spokesperson, Shahid Rind, emphasized that perpetrators will face legal consequences.The attack occurs amid ongoing security operations, including Operation Shaban, which has seen dozens of terrorists killed.Pakistan has faced increased terror threats since 2021, prompting military operations like 'Ghazab lil-Haq' against cross-border militants.Despite diplomatic efforts, tensions persist with Afghanistan's Taliban regime, which has not cooperated on counter-terrorism measures.The incident highlights the persistent security challenges in Balochistan, where state authority faces resistance from militant groups.