PM Shehbaz Sharif Vows Strong Action Against Terrorism After Deadly Attacks in Balochistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing a federal cabinet meeting on Tuesday, emphasized the need for decisive action against terrorism, following a series of brutal attacks in Balochistan that claimed the lives of at least 50 people, including 14 security personnel.
In a wave of violence that erupted late Sunday night, militants associated with the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) launched multiple attacks across the province, targeting security forces and civilians, particularly those from Punjab. The militants attacked police stations, destroyed railway tracks, and set nearly three dozen vehicles on fire, causing widespread devastation.
During the cabinet meeting, PM Shehbaz called for “full unity” among the nation to combat the threat of terrorism, stressing that there is “no room for any kind of weakness.” He urged the country to “move forward with a resolute decision” to address the growing menace.
One of the deadliest incidents occurred in Musakhail, a district bordering Punjab, where militants shot and killed 23 people after checking their identification documents. In Khadkocha, another group of militants blocked a highway, stormed a local police station, and held Levies officials hostage for several hours before setting the premises on fire and fleeing the scene.
In Kalat, militants attacked a Levies station, two hotels, and the residence of a tribal elder, resulting in the deaths of 11 people, including four Levies officials and a police sub-inspector. Additionally, six bodies were recovered in Bolan’s Kolpur area, believed to be victims of the ongoing militant violence.
In response to these attacks, security forces launched retaliatory operations, reportedly neutralizing 21 militants. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi vowed to crush terrorism in the province, with PM Shehbaz declaring that “the time has arrived to end this terrorism.”
The prime minister condemned the attacks in the strongest terms, stating that “terrorists martyred Pakistanis” and expressing his commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism would not be in vain. He also emphasized that the terrorists’ goal is to hinder Pakistan’s progress, particularly projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
PM Shehbaz reiterated that the government is ready to provide the necessary financial resources to the security forces to combat terrorism, even if it means reducing other expenditures. He also mentioned that talks could be held with those in Balochistan who “acknowledge Pakistan’s Constitution and flag,” but made it clear that there would be no negotiations with terrorists.
The prime minister announced his intention to visit Balochistan soon to assess the situation and determine future actions. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has already arrived in Quetta to review the security situation and has vowed to respond to the militants with the necessary force.
The attacks have drawn international condemnation, with China, Iran, and the European Union expressing their support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. China, a key partner in CPEC projects in Balochistan, vowed to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation with Pakistan to maintain regional peace and security. Iran also condemned the attacks and extended condolences to the victims’ families, while the European Union joined in condemning the violence.
