Gilgit - Baltistan

Massacre near Nanga Parbat: PATO demands arrest of terrorists behind tourist killing

Press Conference in Islamabad
PATO Press Conference in Islamabad

Noor 

Islamabad: The terrorist attack near West Face of the Nanga Parbat mountain is a conspiracy aimed at destabilization of Pakistan’s economy. If the government and law enforcing agencies act fast the terrorists behind the massacre can easily be arrested, because it would take anyone at least 18 hours to get out of the region. Around 250,000 people’s lives in Gilgit-Baltistan will be affected directly if the tourism industry cripples.

These views were expressed by Amjad Ayub, President of Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO), at a hurriedly called press conference here in Islamabad. Also present at the press conference were Ashraf Aman, Ghulam Nabi Raikoti, Karar Haideri and representatives of other tour operating agencies.

Responding to a question, Ayub said that enemies of Pakistan, who are “well-known”, are behind the incident, without giving any names. However, he said that it is highly unlikely for any local to be behind the massacre, “because their lives depend on tourism”, he said. He further added that access to the terrorist hit region is very difficult and the passes through which people can move in our out of the area cannot be crossed by ordinary people.

He also rejected the impression created by a segment of the media that the terrorist attack took place in Fairy Meadows.

Terrorists last night killed 9 foreigners and one Pakistani at a camp established near the Base Camp of the West Face of Nangar Parbat, also known as Diamer Face.

It was also decided that a candle-light vigil will be held tomorrow in front of the national press club in Islamabad to express solidarity with families of the murdered tourists.

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5 Comments

  1. I’ m in shock! Unbelievable! As a European ( Belgian) tourist, I travelled 13 years to Fairy Meadows, Astore and around Nanga Parbat, I ‘ve never felt unsafe. I always received respect and friendship from the local people, who are natural experts to handel tourists .
    I always convinced my friends and family that the mountain region in North of Pakistan, is very safe.
    How is this crime possible in that area?
    Congratulations Taliban , you even made me afraid to go back to my favorite place.
    I share the sadness of the families of the victims and the grief of the locals who are losing their future dreams and courage.

    Head on, Diamir people, keep hoping for a better future. Continue to believe that it will succeed. Ever comes that beautiful time of the years 2000 again!
    Wish you all the best!
    Lut Smismans

  2. Greetings Mr.Lut,
    No doubt this was a sham-full act ended by Talbians, however the people of Gilgit-Baltistan will face this confront with new consideration, attention and new thought, because our sky-scraping mountains representing peace and solute our visitors.

  3. Even I am losing hope:
    This morning , I already got message from the Belgian Embassy in ISB to warn me about the ‘danger’ in North and gave me strong advice to not go to Nanga Parbat region. And they are right , it’s their duty to protect the Belgian nationals.
    We can’t be blind, no tourist will go to North this summer. I had the dream to participate EId in Fairy meadows, for the first time in my life. My dream is blown in the wind!
    A group of only a few people is able to hurt the whole region by this bloodbath!

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