Over 100 Baloch militants surrender in 'big blow to BRA'

Militants from Chakrani tribe pledge loyalty to Pakistan; Five terrorists killed in Dera Bugti IBO, says ISPR

RAWALPINDI/DERA BUGTI:

Five terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Dera Bugti district of Balochistan, the military said in a statement on Saturday. The development came on a day when more than 100 former militants — including a senior commander of the outlawed Baloch Republican Army (BRA) — surrendered voluntarily in what is being described as a major development for security and reconciliation efforts in the volatile province.

Acting on an intelligence tip-off about the presence of terrorists belonging to "Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan", security forces conducted an operation in Dera Bugti on December 5, the military's media wing, the ISPR, said in the statement. "Forces effectively engaged the terrorists' location, and after an intense fire exchange, five Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell," it added.

The military uses the term Fitna al-Hindustan for Baloch separatist terrorist groups that, officials say, receive logistical and material support from India's intelligence agency RAW under the "Doval Doctrine," which employs hybrid warfare — including backing terrorist outfits — to destabilise Pakistan.

"Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the terrorists," the ISPR said, adding that the slain terrorists were "actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area." The military added that a mop-up operation was ongoing to purge the area of any remaining terrorist there.

"A relentless counterterrorism campaign under the 'Azm-e-Istehkam' vision by Pakistan's security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue at full pace to eliminate the menace of foreign-sponsored and foreign-supported terrorism," the ISPR added, referring to the strategy approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.

In a related development, Wadera Noor Ali Chakrani, a commander of the BRA's Brahumdagh Bugti faction, along with over 100 former militants, surrendered their weapons during a ceremony in Sui, Dera Bugti. The group raised the national flag and publicly pledged their commitment to peaceful living. The event was attended by important local figures, including Mir Aftab Ahmed Bugti, who welcomed the decision and encouraged their reintegration into society.

Speaking on the occasion, Bugti urged other militants still hiding in surrounding mountainous areas to give up violence and return to the fold of the state. "Enduring peace requires collective responsibility and mutual understanding between communities and authorities," he added.

Sui Town Chairman Izzatullah Aman Bugti appreciated the Balochistan chief minister's approach, saying that a combination of firm security operations and community outreach has helped rebuild trust among the Baloch people. "Such developments reflect the positive results of merging effective law-enforcement measures with public-centered policies," he said, referring to the surrender of former militants.

"These changes show that strong action, when supported by inclusive initiatives, can reshape the security environment," Aman Bugti said, adding that cooperation between residents and institutions is vital for long-term progress in Balochistan.

Officials say the mainstreaming of members of the Chakrani tribe - one of Dera Bugti's major tribes - deals both an operational and psychological blow to the BRA, likely weakening the group's ability to recruit, extort, and carry out violent activities in the volatile province.

Given Dera Bugti's strategic importance as the historic heart of Pakistan's natural gas supply, improved security in the district is also being described as a boost for energy stability and economic resilience.

The collective return of former militants is seen as a public rejection of the violence-based narrative advanced by anti-state elements. Officials say the move reflects growing trust between local communities and the state, and recognition that long-term dignity and development lie in political engagement rather than armed conflict

Security observers believe the perception environment in Dera Bugti has shifted in recent years, driven by expanding development initiatives and disillusionment with foreign-backed militant agendas.

The reintegration of over 100 former militants is also being interpreted as a message to "hostile agencies", particularly RAW, accused of exploiting Baloch youth for geopolitical objectives. Officials claim the return of these militants indicates that external attempts to destabilise Balochistan are increasingly failing, as local communities reject being used as proxies.

Earlier, prominent militant commanders such as Sarfraz Bangulzai of United Baloch Army and Gulzar Imam Shambay, founder of the Baloch Nationalist Army had also surrendered, publicly alleging foreign support for armed groups. Officials say these developments have helped weaken the credibility of separatist groups and opened pathways for dialogue.

Government representatives reiterated the policy of encouraging reconciliation with those who were misled or coerced into militancy but are willing to reintegrate peacefully.

According to officials, the state distinguishes between reconcilable and hardened militants backed by foreign actors. "Those who return will find dignity; those who persist in violence will isolate themselves," an official said.

Authorities and local leaders stressed the need for a structured reintegration package for the Chakrani tribe, including jobs, education, healthcare, vocational training, women's initiatives, and support for small businesses and agriculture. These measures, they say, are essential to ensuring the long-term success of peace efforts.

Officials urged those still involved in armed activity to reconsider, saying their families and communities want peace and stability. "The state is ready to welcome back those who renounce violence and return with honour," an official added.