Quetta: Balochistan has witnessed an extensive crackdown against terrorism during the current year, with 78,000 intelligence-based operations carried out across the province, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqat revealed on Friday.
Addressing a joint press conference along with DIG Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Balochistan Aitzaz Goraya, he said that 707 terrorists have been killed or arrested in various security operations, reflecting intensified counter-terrorism efforts in the province.
Muhammad Hamza Shafqat stated that the ongoing war against terrorism has claimed significant sacrifices, as 202 security personnel embraced martyrdom this year. To further strengthen internal security, the provincial government has allocated Rs 2 billion for the fortification and upgradation of police stations across Balochistan.
He also confirmed the arrest of three terrorists involved in the murder of City SHO Kharan, Qasim Baloch, following a successful operation. Highlighting international developments, he said the US State Department has declared the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, terming it a major diplomatic and security breakthrough.
To pursue terrorists operating from abroad, the Home Department has established a special “Red Notice Cell”, aimed at facilitating international coordination and action against suspects involved in terrorism in Balochistan.
DIG CTD Aitzaz Goraya, while briefing the media, disclosed that the arrested suspects belong to the banned outfit BLF and had received terrorist training in Afghanistan. He said the accused planned to kidnap SHO Qasim Baloch, torture him, and record propaganda videos, but the officer resisted the abduction attempt and was shot dead.
The DIG added that government-issued SMGs and the vehicle used in the crime have been recovered from the suspects. He further revealed that the same group was also involved in planning the attack on the FC Headquarters in Noshki. The arrested terrorists will be produced before the court for further legal proceedings.
