Armed attackers tried to kill Balochistan Interior Minister Mir Zia Langove with a sniper rifle during a convoy ambush in Mastung on 14 August 2026, but he survived after six bullets struck his vehicle, he told reporters on Saturday.

Langove said the attack happened near Mastung city around 11:30 am while he was traveling in a secure motorcade. “They opened fire from a distance with a sniper,” he said. “Six bullets hit my car, but I am safe.” He did not specify the number of attackers or their affiliation.

The minister said security forces are investigating the incident and have cordoned off the area. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Six bullets struck the minister’s bulletproof vehicle during the ambush, but Langove escaped injury. Mastung, a district in Balochistan’s Kalat division, has seen repeated militant violence in recent months, including attacks on security forces and civilians.

Local officials said the convoy was moving through a high-risk zone when the shooting started. Security personnel returned fire and pursued the attackers, but they fled the scene.

Langove, who also holds the portfolio of Home and Tribal Affairs, said the government is reviewing security protocols for ministers and officials traveling in volatile areas. “We will take further measures to ensure the safety of public representatives,” he said.

The attack comes amid a surge in militant activity in Balochistan, where separatist groups and armed outfits have targeted security forces and infrastructure. Mastung district, in particular, has been a hotspot for such violence.

Security analysts say the use of a sniper indicates a high level of sophistication and planning by the attackers. “This is not a random act,” said a retired police officer based in Quetta. “It shows the attackers had prior intelligence and were prepared for a high-profile target.”

The Balochistan government has not yet released details about the attackers’ escape route or any arrests made in connection with the incident.

What happened during the attack?

  • The attack occurred near Mastung city at approximately 11:30 am on 14 August 2026.
  • Armed assailants used a sniper rifle to target the minister’s convoy.
  • Six bullets hit the minister’s bulletproof vehicle; he was unharmed.
  • Security forces returned fire and pursued the attackers, who fled the scene.
  • No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

Security concerns in Balochistan

Mastung district, located in Balochistan’s Kalat division, has seen repeated militant violence in recent months. Security forces and civilians have been targeted in several attacks, including bombings and shootings.

The surge in violence has raised concerns about the effectiveness of counter-terrorism measures in the province. Analysts say the use of a sniper in this attack suggests a shift in tactics by militant groups.

What’s next?

  • The Balochistan government is reviewing security protocols for ministers and officials traveling in volatile areas.
  • Security forces are investigating the incident and have cordoned off the area.
  • No group has claimed responsibility, and the attackers’ identities remain unknown.

If you have information about the attack or the attackers, you can contact the Mastung District Police Office or the Balochistan Counter-Terrorism Department.

What you should do

  • Avoid non-essential travel to Mastung and other high-risk areas in Balochistan until further notice.
  • Stay informed about local security advisories and follow instructions from local authorities.
  • Report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or security checkpoint.

This is a developing story. We will update this report as more information becomes available.