Police drone kills civilian in Sindh; three SHOs suspended
KARACHI, April 23: Three Station House Officers (SHOs) have been suspended after a police drone operation in Pakistan’s Sindh allegedly killed four civilians, including two children, officials said. The incident took place in Saeed Lakho village near Khairpur during an operation targeting suspected dacoit hideouts. Police used a drone during the raid, but it reportedly struck civilians instead of the intended targets. The deaths sparked protests by members of the Dharija community, who blocked a national highway, causing major traffic disruptions. Sindh Home Minister Zia ul Hasan Lanjhar confirmed that an inquiry committee led by the Sukkur range deputy inspector general recommended the suspension of the three SHOs involved. He said initial findings suggest standard operating procedures were not followed during the operation. Authorities have ordered strict departmental action, and a detailed investigation is ongoing. Officials said further legal steps, including possible arrests, may follow depending on the inquiry’s outcome. (PTI)
Pakistan’s Balochistan mine attack kills 9
KARACHI, April 23: Nine workers were killed in a militant attack on a copper and gold mining site in Pakistan’s Balochistan, police said on Thursday. The attack took place on Wednesday evening at a project operated by National Resources Limited (NRL) in the Chagai district’s Darigwan site as workers were finishing their shift. A senior police official said the assault appeared targeted and occurred when employees were leaving work. The bodies were taken to Prince Fahad Hospital in Dalbandin. NRL confirmed the incident and said security forces, including the Frontier Corps, responded quickly and launched a clearance operation, though it did not specify casualties. The company said it remains committed to local development, noting that around 90% of its workforce is from Balochistan. Authorities said the area has previously seen attacks on construction and mining projects, often targeting workers from other provinces. The province remains a restive region with ongoing militant activity. (PTI)
Over 50 homes lost as wildfires sweep Georgia and Florida
Nahunta, April 23: Wildfires in Georgia and Florida have destroyed over 50 homes and forced hundreds of evacuations as drought and strong winds fuel rapid fire spread across the southeastern United States. In Georgia, fires near the coast and northern regions have burned over 33 square miles, with some areas under extreme drought and a historic statewide burn ban issued. Fast-moving flames threatened thousands of homes, particularly in Brantley County, where evacuations were ordered. In Florida, more than 130 fires have burned large areas amid one of the worst fire seasons in decades. Smoke has affected air quality across the region, including Atlanta and Jacksonville, with health warnings issued. Authorities warn dry conditions and winds will keep fire risk high. (AP)
