Pakistan launches hunt for gunmen after attack on refinery site in Balochistan

Pakistan’s National Refinery Limited said on Wednesday that its Darigwan site in southwestern Balochistan was attacked by unidentified gunmen. The company noted that the situation was under control after the security forces conducted a clearance operation, Reuters reported.

As per the report, armed assailants opened fire on the premises, raising fresh concerns over the security of critical energy infrastructure in the region and in the country. The initial reports also suggested that the attackers targeted the site, triggering panic among workers.

The refinery noted that the security personnel responded promptly, and the gunmen soon fled the scene. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Operations halted briefly

In a statement on Wednesday, the company said that operations were briefly halted as a precautionary measure while authorities assessed the situation. Emergency protocols were activated, and employees were moved to safer areas, the statement obtained by Reuters read.

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Meanwhile, preliminary information suggests limited damage, though a detailed evaluation is still underway. Local law enforcement agencies have also launched an investigation and sealed off the area. Officials noted that efforts are being undertaken to identify those involved.

Security has been stepped up in the nearby areas as well. It is pertinent to note that Pakistan has witnessed sporadic attacks on infrastructure in recent years, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors. Analysts warned that such incidents could affect investor confidence and unearth the persistent security challenges in a sensitive region.