Five injured in accidental firing at governor’s private residence in Zhob

QUETTA: At least five people, including two police personnel, were injured on Friday morning in an accidental firing at the private residence of Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail in Zhob district.

According to District Police Officer (DPO) Shaukat Mohmand, the incident occurred at “Janan House” when a police constable stationed there accidentally discharged his official rifle. He confirmed that two policemen and three students sustained injuries but their condition is out of danger.

Station House Officer (SHO) Muhammad Ayub Mandokhail explained that the rifle went off while the policeman was attempting to clear a round stuck in the chamber. The weapon was on burst mode, causing multiple shots to fire. SHO Mandokhail added that he and a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) narrowly escaped being hit, as the weapon was pointed towards the ground, which minimised damage.

Over 100 students from Government Degree College Zhob were present at the residence to meet the governor when the incident occurred, sparking chaos. The injured were identified as police personnel Havaldar Habibur Rehman and Constable Rozi Khan, along with students Sadiq Shah, Zulqarnain, and Muhammad Ayaz.

They were shifted to Civil Hospital Zhob’s trauma center, while the seriously injured Muhammad Ayaz was later moved to CMH for further treatment. Most victims sustained injuries to their hands and legs and are stable, though two were referred to Quetta for surgery to remove bullets.

Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail remained safe as he was inside a room during the incident. The responsible police officer has been taken into custody and an investigation has been launched.