QUETTA :Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti stated on Monday that the security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is influenced by regional and geographical factors, calling the conflict a “shared responsibility” of all state institutions, including the judiciary and security agencies.
Speaking at a press conference alongside MNA Jamal Raisani, Bugti announced that approximately 100 militants had surrendered to the government in Dera Bugti. He described the move as a positive step, noting that the same individuals had taken up arms in 2018–19 but had now been “embraced” upon their return. Bugti reiterated that the state’s amnesty offer remains open to those willing to lay down weapons.
The chief minister emphasized that intelligence-based operations, not large-scale military offensives, are ongoing in the province. He strongly defended the armed forces, asserting that no public office permits maligning the military under the Constitution. While reluctant to label politicians as anti-state, he urged introspection among political leaders whose rhetoric, he suggested, often undermines national security.
Bugti also expressed full support for the DG ISPR’s recent press briefing and warned against allowing terrorists to reach the federal capital. He called on political figures like Sohail Afridi to cooperate with the federation.
Highlighting cross-border concerns, Bugti pointed to the Afghan interim government’s unfulfilled pledge to deny sanctuary to militants, noting that terrorist groups continue to operate from across the border. He affirmed that the people of Balochistan stand with the military and will continue to do so in the fight against extremism.
