Security forces thwarted suicide attack on August 14, says Balochistan CM Bugti 

Quetta (Web Desk): Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti revealed on Monday that security forces had successfully foiled a major terrorist plan aimed at causing widespread destruction on Independence Day.

Addressing a press conference in Quetta, he stated that suicide bombers had been preparing to target innocent citizens celebrating the national holiday on August 14.

The Balochistan CM praised the timely action of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and other security agencies, saying their swift efforts had spared the province from what could have been a devastating tragedy.

Bugti commended the role of law enforcement agencies and urged parents to be more vigilant about their children's activities, warning that extremist elements often exploit youth through online propaganda. He highlighted the importance of staying cautious and avoiding involvement with those who spread misinformation or promote anti-state agendas.

The Balochistan CM also drew attention to a disturbing link between the recent Independence Day plot and the November 2024 attack at Quetta Railway Station, stating that the same group was behind both incidents. 
Investigations are ongoing, and Bugti hinted that further revelations about the use of digital platforms for terrorist recruitment and propaganda are expected. One such case that came to light during the investigation involved a lecturer from Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS).

CM Bugti said that the lecturer had confessed to using the Telegram app to carry out terrorist activities. He admitted to receiving instructions, facilitating operations, and betraying the state while holding a PhD in Pakistan Studies.

The chief minister pointed out that the lecturer’s wife was also a teacher and his mother a pensioner, challenging the often-repeated narrative that such individuals are driven to extremism by deprivation or marginalisation.

Sarfraz Bugti further alleged that this network was also involved in exploiting women, reportedly blackmailing them into becoming suicide bombers.

Reaffirming the government’s resolve, THE Balochistan CM stated that those who target civilians, especially the youth, would face strict action.

While making it clear that society as a whole would not be punished, he stressed that terrorists would be dealt with firmly and without leniency.

CM Bugti also addressed the issue of missing persons, asserting that there were no cases of enforced disappearances from the government’s side. He accused certain groups of using the topic as a propaganda tool to undermine the state.

The Balochistan CM emphasised that power lies with the parliament, calling it the country’s highest institution from which all authority flows.

Bugti disclosed that a facilitator affiliated with the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) had been arrested in Quetta. He added that authorities had identified around 2,000 individuals involved in activities aimed at breaking up the country, making it clear that no amnesty would be offered to them. Alarmingly, he said some of the suspects were government employees.

The Balochistan CM also acknowledged the recent kidnapping of two assistant commissioners as a deeply concerning matter. He assured the public that operations were ongoing for their recovery, including a recent one conducted in the Khalifat Hills.

Sarfraz Bugti expressed confidence in the capability of security forces to deal with the threats, while the provincial administration would manage the legal and administrative follow-ups.

Concluding his remarks, the Balochisatan CM extended an olive branch, saying that those willing to engage in dialogue would find the government open to conversation.

Moreover, he called on all political parties to unite in the fight against terrorism and to recognise the sacrifices made by the state and its institutions in protecting the nation.