By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Armed terrorists targeted three crusher plants in Kotla Lodhiyaan, Paharpur tehsil, robbing workers of 12 mobile phones and cash, and seizing a motorcycle from a passerby during their escape.
Sources said the attackers issued threats to the plant owners, demanding Rs 100 million in extortion and warning that machinery would be set on fire if the demands were not met. In the aftermath, 13 of the 14 crusher plants along Chashma Road have shut down, leaving dozens of workers unemployed and severely affecting local economic activity.
Workers reported extreme mental stress, stating that attending work under such conditions poses a direct risk to their lives. Crusher plant owners have appealed to the administration for immediate security measures.
Civil society members described the incident as a serious warning for the district, urging the prompt arrest of the terrorists, full security for plants and workers, and a strong law enforcement presence to restore order. The public called on district authorities to act decisively to protect lives, property, and businesses.
