The abduction and reported killing of two Chinese nationals in Balochistan was a security failure and the claim of responsibility by the militant Islamic State group was a troubling development. Ministry of interior has issued notification that the abducted Chinese couple from Balochistan has been killed. Lee Zing Yang, 24, and Meng Li Si, 26, were abducted from Jinnah Town of Balochistan’s provincial capital on May 24. Later, the Islamic State terrorist group claimed that it had killed the abductees. Interior Ministry revealed that the abducted Chinese couple was part of a group of Chinese citizens who obtained business visa from the Pakistani Embassy in Beijing. It was also disclosed the couple of busy in preaching practice in Quetta. It is not pleasing to know that interior ministry seems more interested in victim-blaming than focusing on crime and security lapse. Ministry should be telling the reasons that why abducted foreign nationals were not recovered alive?
China and Pakistan are working to make Gwadar the hub of regional trade; billions of dollars are being invested in the massive projects under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Incumbent government has reiterated that all the measures would be taken to improve security situation, particularly of the Balochistan province. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has also shown special interest to tackle all the notorious plans of anti-Pakistan elements and to make CPEC a reality. But sadly still anti-state and extremist elements are busy in extremist activities. There is dire need to further improve the security situation of the country; particularly foreigners working in Balochistan should be given special protection. It is good omen that spokesperson of foreign ministry of China has given the statement that killing of two Chinese nationals would not dent friendly relations of China and Pakistan, but we should work to improve security situation of the country.
There is also need to keep in check the alleged growth of extremist elements in the largest province of Pakistan. Army conducted successful military operation in Mastung killing over a dozen members of ISIS. We hope such more operations take place in order to eliminate menace of extremism and terrorism.
Government needs to ensure the safety of foreigners.