Journalists demand probe into reporter Lala Asrafeel killing

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 7 June 2026 |  JP Staff Report

Balochistan Union of Journalists condemned the killing of reporter Lala Asrafeel in Musa Khel and demanded a transparent investigation, urging CM Mir Sarfaraz Bugti and Interior Minister Mir Zia Lango to identify the motive and bring perpetrators to justice.

Summary

QUETTA—The Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) has strongly condemned the killing of journalist Lala Asrafeel, who worked for a private television channel in Musa Khel, and called for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident.

In a joint statement, BUJ President Manzoor Ahmed Rind, General Secretary Shah Hussain Tareen, and other office-bearers expressed deep grief over the journalist’s death and urged authorities to identify those responsible and determine the motive behind the killing.

Union seeks transparent investigation

The union expressed solidarity with Asrafeel’s family and called on Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti and Interior Minister Mir Zia Lango to ensure a thorough investigation covering all aspects of the case. The organization said those responsible should be brought to justice as quickly as possible.

BUJ said the killing of another journalist in Balochistan has caused concern and anxiety within the media community and indicated that it would announce its future course of action in response to the incident.

Unconfirmed reports describe the shooting

According to unconfirmed reports, unidentified assailants opened fire on Asrafeel near the Central Jamia Masjid, in front of his shop. The shooting reportedly created fear and panic in the area, and six bullets were fired at the journalist. These details have not been independently verified.

The killing adds to longstanding concerns among journalists and press freedom advocates about the safety of media workers in conflict-affected and remote regions of Pakistan, where reporters often face significant professional risks while covering local issues.

WHY THIS MATTERS: The killing of a journalist raises serious concerns about the safety of media workers and the ability of reporters to carry out their work without fear of violence. For news organizations and journalists, transparent investigations into attacks on media personnel are critical for accountability and public confidence in the rule of law.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting by JournalismPakistan, based on publicly available statements from the Balochistan Union of Journalists issued following the incident.