Hidayatullah Baloch, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Revenue, who lost his life in a militant attack in Surab, Balochistan, on Friday, was an Oxford graduate.
According to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind, terrorists attacked banks and government officials’ residences in Surab, resulting in Hidayatullah’s death, while homes of other officials were set ablaze.
He stated that Hidayatullah demonstrated extraordinary courage during the attack, protecting women and children who were present in his residence at the time.
Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti blamed the banned organization Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) for the attack. He remarked on X (formerly Twitter): “Despite being ADC Revenue, when BLA terrorists in Surab opened fire on women and children in the marketplace, Hidayatullah Baloch upheld Baloch traditions and bravery. With unwavering commitment to the state of Pakistan, he sacrificed his life in its defense.”
Hidayatullah Baloch, aged 33, belonged to Bhag Nari in the Bolan district of Balochistan. He pursued his early education in Bhag Nari and later moved to Quetta for schooling until grade seven. He then attended Residential College in Loralai, completing his education up to FSC.
Hidayatullah’s father, Faiz Muhammad, served as a principal at Government Boys College and focused heavily on his children’s education. Hidayatullah was the eldest among four brothers and five sisters.
After completing FSC and a BSc, Hidayatullah secured a scholarship to Oxford University for higher education. Upon graduating, he returned to Balochistan and began preparing for civil service exams, securing a government job. Initially recruited as a Tehsildar through the Public Service Commission, he eventually passed the PCS exam, becoming an Assistant Commissioner.
He served in various areas of the province as an Assistant Commissioner. Just days before the attack, he had been promoted from Grade 17 to Grade 18 and appointed as Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue in Surab, where he was killed on Friday, May 30, during an armed attack.
Hidayatullah leaves behind a son, two daughters, and a widow. His body was transported via helicopter to his hometown Bhag, where he was laid to rest. His funeral and burial were attended by family, tribal elders, and high-ranking government officials.
