A journalist was shot dead after an armed assailant opened fire on him in the Ladies Bazaar area of Dera Allahyar, Balochistan, police said on Wednesday.
The victim, identified as Nazar Muhammad Kanrani, died at the scene, while his brother sustained injuries in the attack. Police rushed to the area and shifted the body and the injured man to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital.
Authorities arrested the suspected attacker, identified only as Hafiz, and have launched an investigation into the motive behind the killing.
Senior Journalist from Balochistan
Nazar Muhammad Kanrani was a resident of Sohbatpur district, Balochistan, and had served as the Vice President of the Awami Press Club Sohbatpur. His killing has sparked concern among journalists and media organizations across Balochistan, who have called for a transparent investigation and swift justice.
Sources Link Victim to BLA Target List
According to local sources, Kanrani’s name had previously appeared on a target list maintained by the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Officials have not confirmed whether the attack was linked to the list, and investigators say all possible angles are being examined.
Journalists Continue to Face Security Threats in Balochistan
The latest killing comes amid continuing security challenges in Balochistan, where journalists have increasingly faced threats while reporting from conflict-affected areas.
In June 2026, local journalist Lala Israfil was shot dead in Musakhel, Balochistan. According to reports, armed militants belonging to the banned BLA carried out the attack, prompting widespread condemnation from journalist bodies and civil society.
Media organizations have repeatedly urged authorities to ensure the safety of journalists in Balochistan and to bring those responsible for attacks on media workers to justice.
