Prominent human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has raised serious concerns over the reported abduction of 16 nuclear engineers in Pakistan. The engineers were taken from a uranium mining site in Lakki Marwat, a district in Pakistan’s Dera Ismail Khan region. Mirza claims the incident could be an inside job, with suspicions pointing toward Pakistan’s military involvement in a broader scheme.
Reports allege that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is behind the theft of uranium from the site. However, Mirza believes the reality is far more complex. He questioned the security lapse, noting the lack of resistance from the personnel guarding the uranium mining facility. “How could the TTP breach such a secure area without any shots fired?” he asked.
Criticism of Delayed Response and Suspected Collusion
Mirza criticized the lack of an immediate response from security forces, such as deploying helicopters to pursue the abductors. He described the security failure as highly suspicious, suggesting possible collusion. According to Mirza, the incident reflects systemic issues within Pakistan’s security apparatus.
He alleged that sections of Pakistan’s military might have facilitated the theft to conceal uranium smuggling operations. These claims have reignited global concerns about Pakistan’s nuclear safety protocols and the risk of sensitive materials falling into the wrong hands.
Global Security Implications
Mirza also highlighted the broader implications of the incident on global security. He accused Pakistan’s military of covertly selling nuclear technology to rogue states. These actions, he said, threaten the integrity of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).
The activist urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to conduct an independent investigation into the incident. He also called on the United States to raise the matter at the United Nations Security Council. According to Mirza, unauthorized transfers of nuclear materials pose a direct threat to global non-proliferation efforts.
Fears Over Nuclear Asset Safety in Pakistan
The abduction has sparked fears over the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear assets. Experts and international observers have long expressed concerns about the country’s ability to secure its nuclear facilities. Mirza’s allegations add to the growing unease surrounding Pakistan’s nuclear program.
He emphasized that swift international action is necessary to prevent further escalation. Mirza called on global authorities to hold Pakistan accountable and ensure the security of nuclear materials in the region.
The abduction of nuclear engineers in Lakki Marwat highlights critical vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s nuclear security framework. Allegations of military collusion and smuggling activities amplify global concerns over unauthorized access to nuclear technology. Mirza’s warnings serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international oversight and intervention to prevent potential threats to global stability.
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