QUETTA: Security forces, including the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), foiled a major terrorist plot targeting Independence Day celebrations in Balochistan, the provincial government confirmed on Monday. Officials said timely intelligence and swift action prevented suicide bombers from carrying out large-scale attacks on August 14.
Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, addressing a press conference in Quetta, said: “On August 14, the suicide bombers had planned to target innocent citizens who were celebrating Independence Day.” He praised the vigilance of law enforcement agencies, crediting them with saving countless lives, and appealed to parents to monitor their children’s activities to shield them from extremist influences.
Bugti revealed that the individuals behind the foiled plot were also responsible for the November 2024 Quetta Railway Station attack. He warned that while society would not face collective punishment, those targeting “our innocent children and citizens” would be dealt with firmly.
The chief minister disclosed the confession of a BUITEMS University lecturer who admitted to facilitating terrorist activities via Telegram. The lecturer, holding a PhD in Pakistan Studies, confessed to receiving targets, aiding operations, and betraying the state. Bugti criticised the misuse of narratives of deprivation, noting the lecturer came from a well-settled family and alleging that extremist groups were now even exploiting women for suicide missions.
He further confirmed the arrest of a facilitator linked to the banned BLA in Quetta and revealed that investigations had identified government employees among suspects. Around 2,000 individuals seeking to destabilise the country “will not be pardoned,” he added.
On the kidnapping of two assistant commissioners, Bugti admitted it was a matter of grave concern but assured that operations were in progress, including one in Khalifat Hills, to ensure their recovery. He stressed that security forces had the capability to counter terrorism while the provincial government would fulfil its legal and administrative role.
Reaffirming that parliament was the country’s supreme institution, Bugti urged all political parties to stand united against terrorism and recognise the sacrifices of the state in fighting extremism. “Those who wish to talk to us will find our doors open,” he said.
