Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti has reaffirmed the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism, stating that security forces will not retreat in the face of violence and will continue decisive operations to safeguard the province and the country.
Speaking to journalists in Quetta, the Chief Minister disclosed that 17 security personnel embraced martyrdom during recent encounters with terrorists, while 145 terrorists were killed, whose bodies are currently in the custody of authorities. He stated that the militants were responsible for the killing of 31 innocent civilians, including a tragic incident in Gwadar, where five women and three children were martyred. The victims belonged to a family from Khuzdar and were ethnic Baloch.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti strongly rejected militant claims of representing Baloch identity, stating that those responsible for such atrocities are terrorists, not Baloch, and that their actions are a direct assault on the people of Balochistan themselves.
The Chief Minister further revealed that Afghan soil is being used against Pakistan, and intelligence reports indicate the involvement of Afghan nationals among the terrorists. He stated that key militant figures, including Bashir Zeb, Rehman Gul, and Allah Nazar, are currently present in Afghanistan.
He confirmed that security agencies had received prior intelligence regarding the planned terrorist attacks and that operations were initiated a day in advance. He emphasized that the terrorists acted on the directions and support of India, with the objective of destabilizing Pakistan at a time when the country is striving for economic recovery and progress.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti made it clear that the state would not surrender under any circumstances. He stated that Pakistan is prepared for a long and sustained struggle against terrorism, adding that the sacrifices of security forces and civilians would not go unanswered and that militants would not be allowed to escape justice.
Responding to questions regarding negotiations, the Chief Minister questioned the legitimacy of engaging in talks with armed groups, stating that the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is not a registered political entity but an armed organization attempting to impose its ideology through violence. He rejected the narrative that terrorism is a consequence of deprivation, asserting that innocent Baloch civilians are being deliberately used as fuel for violence under external direction.
He further explained that counterterrorism operations are conducted with utmost care to minimize civilian harm, noting that militants deliberately hide among civilian populations. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to rely on intelligence-based operations, vowing to pursue terrorists relentlessly, dismantle their networks, and eliminate them wherever they hide.
The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating that the government and security forces remain fully committed to protecting the people of Balochistan and ensuring lasting peace, stability, and development across the province.
