QUETTA: Security analysts have raised concerns over increasing criminal activities in Balochistan allegedly linked to banned militant groups backed by hostile foreign actors. According to recent reports, these groups are using smuggling and extortion as tools to destabilize the province’s economy.
Reports reveled that militants, referred to as “Sarmachars” in local parlance, are reportedly targeting contractors and small business owners, demanding extortion under threat of violence.
These actions have severely disrupted development projects in the region, contributing to growing unemployment and insecurity.
Authorities claim that the purpose behind these activities is to keep Balochistan in a state of perpetual instability, weakening its economic infrastructure and obstructing progress. Calls are growing for stricter border security and stronger action against economic sabotage.
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No group has publicly claimed responsibility for the recent wave of extortion-related incidents. Meanwhile, local communities continue to bear the brunt of both militant violence and stalled development.
