The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an international organization working for the protection of journalists, has called on Pakistani authorities to ensure a swift, impartial, and transparent investigation into the brutal killing of journalist Abdul Latif Baloch in Balochistan on May 24. CPJ stated that those responsible must be brought to justice in order to curb the growing violence against journalists and safeguard press freedom.
According to CPJ, on the morning of May 24, unknown gunmen stormed the house of journalist Abdul Latif Baloch in the Mashkay area of Awaran and opened fire on him. BBC reported that Latif Baloch was hit by four bullets. Local police confirmed that an investigation is underway, but the motive for the killing has yet to be determined.
However, Baloch political and social circles allege that security forces were involved in the killing of Latif Baloch.
Abdul Latif Baloch, associated with Daily Intekhab, was shot dead at around 3 AM on May 24 at his home in Tehsil Mashkay. According to eyewitnesses, the shooting took place in front of his family members. Latif Baloch was known for reporting on conflicts and sensitive issues in Balochistan and was regarded as a courageous and bold journalist.
Beh Lih Yi, CPJ’s Asia Program Director, stated that Pakistani authorities must immediately determine the motive behind Latif Baloch’s killing and whether it was related to his journalistic work.
In Pakistan, journalists continue to face increasing violence and threats from both state and non-state actors. The government must ensure the protection and freedom of journalists not only in Balochistan but throughout the country.
CPJ noted that Latif Baloch had worked with Daily Intekhab, Aaj News, and ARY News, and had long reported on issues from the sensitive region of Balochistan.
CPJ further stated that the Inspector General of Balochistan Police, Moazzam Jah Ansari, has not responded to their request for a comment regarding the investigation.
The organization emphasized that Pakistan is considered one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, especially those who report critically on militancy, powerful institutions such as the military establishment, corruption, and crime.
According to CPJ, since 1992, at least 75 journalists and media workers have been killed in Pakistan in connection with their work. Pakistan ranks 12th on CPJ’s 2024 Global Impunity Index, which lists countries where journalists are killed with impunity.
