Balochistan CM Says Security Forces Foiled Major Terror Plot on Independence Day

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti announced on Monday that security forces foiled a major terrorist attack planned for Pakistan’s Independence Day, arresting a suspected “would-be suicide bomber” in the process.

Attack Planned for August 14 Celebrations

Addressing a press conference in Quetta, Bugti said the attackers had targeted innocent citizens celebrating Independence Day on August 14. He credited the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), police, and other security agencies for saving the province from “huge destruction.”

The chief minister also aired a recorded statement of a university lecturer accused of facilitating terrorists. In the video, the lecturer admitted to links with militant groups, with Bugti stressing that not all details were being disclosed to protect ongoing investigations.

Lecturer’s Alleged Role in Past Attacks

Bugti linked the arrested academic to the November 2024 Quetta Railway Station bombing that killed 32 people and injured more than 50. According to the CM, the lecturer had transported the bomber to the attack site and handed him to another handler.

He rejected claims that militancy stemmed from deprivation, noting that the lecturer enjoyed government employment, a PhD scholarship, and family benefits. “This man was not deprived in any way,” Bugti said.

BLA’s ‘Sophisticated Tier’ Exposed

Bugti described the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as operating in multiple tiers, with the arrested lecturer belonging to the most “sophisticated” level of its Majeed Brigade. He said it was the first time such a high-ranking figure had been captured.

“The narrative of deprivation is an attempt to legitimize this fight against Pakistan,” Bugti said, criticizing political parties that described violence in Balochistan differently from terrorism elsewhere.

Warning to Families and Communities

The CM revealed that neighbors resisted the CTD’s attempt to arrest the would-be bomber, leading to their arrest as well. He warned citizens to stay away from militants, stating: “If you stay close to them, you will also be treated like a suicide bomber.”

Bugti emphasized that while the government opposed collective punishment, families that failed to report relatives involved with militants would also face scrutiny.

Crackdown on Militancy

Responding to reporters, Bugti said past governments had neglected the issue. He underscored efforts to strengthen CTD intelligence, citing investigations into up to 2,500 individuals, including government employees. Some were suspended or terminated, while others were cleared.

“We will not spare anyone. We’ll fight this war in warfare and lawfare too,” he said, while keeping the door open for dialogue with those willing to renounce violence.

Lecturer’s Confession

In his statement, the lecturer admitted joining a militant group in 2020 through contacts made on Telegram. He described providing shelter to injured militants and assisting in attacks, including purchasing a pistol used against security personnel.

He expressed regret over his actions, acknowledging them as unlawful and a “betrayal of the state.”