CM vows no safe havens for terrorists in Balochistan

QUETTA:

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Saturday declared that terrorist elements seeking to destabilise the province would not be allowed to establish safe havens, asserting that the state would employ an effective strategy to defeat terrorism and protect citizens.

Bugti was commenting on a recent security operation in the Kolpur area in which eight terrorists affiliated with the India-backed Fitna al-Hindustan were killed. He described the operation as a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against terrorism and said attempts to spread fear, disrupt public life or target national highways would be thwarted.

Intelligence-based operations are continuing in Kolpur, Kirdgap and Nushki, the chief minister said, while security has been further strengthened along the Quetta-Taftan National Highway to ensure the safety of citizens and uninterrupted movement of traffic.

Bugti expressed grief over the martyrdom of Major Umar Minhas Nasir and Havaldar Muhammad Adnan Khan, who were killed in a terrorist attack. He paid tribute to the fallen security personnel and offered condolences to their families.

Terrorist groups are increasingly using modern technologies, including drones and improvised explosive devices, the chief minister noted. However, he stressed that changing tactics would not weaken the state's resolve. "State institutions are also improving their strategies and operational capabilities in response to the changing nature of terrorism," he said.

Lasting peace is essential for economic development, investment and the restoration of normal life in Balochistan, Bugti emphasised, adding that the government would not allow terrorists to regain a foothold in any part of the province.