Terrorists in Balochistan Using Advanced Wireless Technology for Communication, Reveals Secretary IT & Telecom

Islamabad: During a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, it was revealed that terrorists in Balochistan are using advanced wireless technology for communication. The Secretary of IT and Telecom informed the committee that while internet services are also used by militants, their primary means of communication includes modern wireless systems.
The meeting, chaired by Committee Chairman Aminul Haque, also disclosed that Pakistan faced a series of cyberattacks from India during the recent border tensions. However, the country’s cybersecurity team successfully thwarted all attacks. Members of the committee lauded the efforts of Pakistan’s cybersecurity personnel and the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT).
Chairman Aminul Haque praised the defense strategy, stating that from May 5 to May 10, Pakistan not only defended its cyber assets but also launched counter-cyber operations. He emphasized that the efforts of the cybersecurity team deserve national appreciation.
The issue of prolonged internet suspension in Balochistan’s Panjgur district was also raised. Interior Ministry officials told the committee that a letter was sent on March 22 requesting security clearance to restore services, but the security agencies have denied clearance for the next six months, citing security concerns.
Committee member Polan Baloch criticized the long-standing internet shutdown, stating that the region has faced connectivity issues for several years. “If things haven’t improved in the past three years, how will they in the next six months?” she questioned, asserting that her region was being unfairly punished.
Member Umair Niazi acknowledged the security challenges in Balochistan but stressed the need to improve systemic issues. Committee Chairman Aminul Haque reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the problems faced by the people of Balochistan.
Member Adil Khan Bazai questioned the effectiveness of the internet shutdown. “Has the situation improved with the internet ban? In fact, it has worsened,” he said. Bazai argued that the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) militants do not rely solely on the internet and are using alternative communication tools.
The Secretary of IT and Telecom confirmed that terrorists are using advanced wireless technologies alongside internet services. However, he admitted that there is limited detailed knowledge about the full extent of the technologies being employed by the militants, as such information is mostly held by security agencies.
Concluding the session, Chairman Aminul Haque announced that an in-camera meeting would soon be convened to discuss national security concerns in depth.