Security was tightened in Balochistan’s Turbat, restricting access to government offices and courts, while markets were closed and large numbers of Pakistani forces deployed in Panjgur, sources said on Wednesday.
The measures in Turbat came amid reports that Balochistan’s home minister and the corps commander had arrived in the city. Sources said a high-level meeting discussed efforts to secure the recovery of Aurangzeb Majeed, brother of Meena Majeed, the chief minister’s adviser on sports and youth affairs.
The inspector general of Frontier Corps South and senior intelligence officials reportedly attended the meeting, which reviewed possible operations to secure Majeed’s safe return and the overall security situation.
Sources said the corps commander instructed the relevant authorities to secure his swift and safe return. A proposal for a large-scale operation in border areas was also considered, they added.
Aurangzeb was abducted at gunpoint from Balochabad in Mand by four men travelling on two motorcycles, according to police. Home Minister Ziaullah Langove confirmed the abduction during a press conference in Quetta.
Passenger vehicles were searched at entry and exit points, with movement closely monitored along several roads in Turbat, sources said.
Government employees were reportedly prevented from entering their offices, including staff of the education, health, local government and food departments, as well as the deputy commissioner’s and commissioner’s offices.
Lawyers and people seeking access to government offices and courts also faced difficulties, while some employees already inside their offices were reportedly unable to leave.
Separately, sources in Panjgur said markets were closed, bringing commercial activity to a halt, while Pakistani forces were deployed at intersections and entry and exit points.
Residents remained largely confined to their homes, although those travelling to and from work were reportedly allowed through after identifying themselves.
Officials had not issued a clear statement explaining the measures in Panjgur at the time of reporting.