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Central & South Asia
Pakistan minister escapes attack
Sardar Mohammad Rind's convoy comes under fire in strife-torn Baluchistan province.
Last Modified: 20 Feb 2007 13:47 GMT

Armed men attacked the convoy of a Pakistani government minister in the southwestern province of Baluchistan on Tuesday but he escaped unhurt.

 

Sardar Khan Rind, Lando's mayor, said: "The attackers fired at the convoy with automatic weapons. Three cars were damaged but no one was hurt."
 
He said it was too early to say who was behind the attack.

Accusations

 

Suspicion has fallen upon Baluch separatists, fighting for more autonomy and a greater share of profits from the region's natural resources.

 

The separatists in Pakistan's biggest, but poorest province accuse the central government of exploiting its resources without sharing the benefits among its people.

 

They frequently attack gas pipelines and government and military targets.

 

Earlier on Tuesday, suspected separatists blew up a gas pipeline on the outskirts of Quetta, cutting supplies to four districts near the city and a power plant.

 

Supplies might be restored to some areas within 24 hours, officials said.

 

Pervez Musharraf, the Pakistani president, has promised to develop the province which borders Afghanistan and Iran.

 

He has also promised an amnesty for separatists who give up, but vowed tough action against those who do not.

Source:
Agencies
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