TV news channel reporter shot dead in southwest Pakistan

Sep 30, 2012 |

Islamabad

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A reporter of a TV news channel was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in the restive Balochistan province of southwest Pakistan on Saturday, officials said.

Abdul Haq Baloch, a correspondent for ARY News in Khuzdar city, was attacked by two gunmen riding a motorcycle near the local press club at Chakar Khan Road at 7:30 pm (local time).

Officials said the motive for the killing had not been ascertained. ARY News confirmed the incident and said Baloch was heading home when he was attacked. The channel said the reporter had not received threats from anyone. The gunmen fled after the attack. No group claimed responsibility for the incident.

Another employee of ARY News was killed in Peshawar city in the northwest during violent protests against an anti-Islam film on September 21. The employee died after being hit by a bullet in police firing.

Baloch's murder again raised concern about the security of journalists in Pakistan. International media organizations have listed Pakistan as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists. Dozens of reporters have died while performing their duties over the past decade.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf expressed grief at the death of Baloch and strongly condemned the incident. He directed authorities to apprehend those involved in the heinous crime and bring them to justice.

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