Balochistan police on high alert over threats

Banned outfit suspected of planning highway attacks on key routes

QUETTA:

The Central Police Office Balochistan has issued a formal threat alert following credible intelligence about possible terrorist activities in the province and neighbouring Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

According to an official letter, the proscribed organisation Fitna al-Khawarij is planning to plant Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) on major highways and sensitive locations in both provinces. The alert specifically highlights Quetta-Chaman Highway, Quetta-Pishin Road, Saranan, Mazai Adda, and other important points as potential targets.

The communiqué also warns that terrorist elements may target personnel of law enforcement agencies.

In response, the Central Police Office has directed all concerned departments, district police chiefs, and security agencies to immediately enhance security measures, intensify surveillance and patrolling, and take all necessary preemptive actions to prevent any untoward incident.

The authorities have been instructed to submit a detailed report on the security arrangements put in place within five days to the Inspector General of Police, Balochistan.

The development comes amid heightened security concerns in the region.