Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti praised the province’s security forces for successfully foiling a suicide bombing plot aimed at innocent citizens celebrating Independence Day. Speaking in Quetta, Bugti highlighted the crucial role played by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in preventing a major catastrophe.
On Monday, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti lauded the efforts of law enforcement agencies, particularly the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), for foiling a suicide attack on August 14 that targeted innocent citizens during the Independence Day celebrations. Bugti described the thwarted attack as a major plot of destruction, which security forces were able to intercept before it could unfold.
The chief minister stressed the importance of vigilance, urging parents to monitor their children closely to prevent them from being misled by extremist ideologies. Bugti warned the public to remain cautious of propaganda aimed at inciting violence and division within society. He specifically pointed out that the terrorists involved in the recent foiled plot were linked to the November 2024 Quetta Railway Station attack.
Bugti confirmed that investigations into the attack were ongoing, with more individuals and propaganda tools expected to be exposed. He made it clear that while society would not face collective punishment, those responsible for targeting innocent civilians, including children, would face severe consequences.
One of the most shocking revelations from Bugti’s press conference was the confession of a BUITEMS University lecturer, who admitted to using the Telegram messaging app for facilitating terrorist activities. The lecturer, a PhD holder in Pakistan Studies, allegedly received targets and coordinated terrorist operations, betraying the state. His arrest has raised alarm about the exploitation of educational institutions for radicalization, with Bugti specifically criticizing the misuse of narratives of marginalization.
Bugti condemned the involvement of women in terrorism, alleging that such individuals were being exploited for suicide attacks. He further warned that those actively opposing the state would be dealt with under stringent laws, stating, “terrorists will be dealt with an iron hand.”
Regarding the ongoing issue of missing persons, Bugti clarified that no forced disappearances were being carried out by the state, and he emphasized that the issue was being used for political propaganda against the government. He reiterated the supremacy of parliament and stated that all powers stemmed from it.
In addition, Bugti confirmed the arrest of a facilitator from the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in Quetta and stressed that no one attempting to break the nation would be pardoned. Investigations have also linked some government employees to the terrorist activities.
On the kidnapping of two assistant commissioners, Bugti acknowledged the concern but reassured the public that operations were underway to ensure their safe return. He assured that Balochistan’s security forces had the capability to tackle terrorism head-on, while the provincial government would continue to manage legal and administrative measures to support counter-terrorism efforts.
Bugti concluded by calling on all political parties to unite against terrorism, urging them to recognize the sacrifices made by the state and security forces in the fight against extremism. “Those who wish to talk to us will find our doors open,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to peace and security.
