Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sanaullah Zehri, Addresses Recent Security Concerns

Quetta:Mir Sanaullah Zehri, the Chief Minister of Balochistan, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict with non-state actors in Balochistan, citing that extremist organizations have been responsible for the deaths of over 5,000 Pakistanis. Despite repeated attempts at negotiation, these individuals with extremist ideologies have thwarted efforts towards peace. He emphasized the government’s preference for resolving issues through dialogue, but cautioned that if negotiations fail, no one will be allowed to attack Punjab-based paramilitary forces or government properties. Zehri stated these views during a private television interview, highlighting a growing sentiment across the country that those fighting for freedom in Balochistan are dissatisfied with the absence of schools and roads. He clarified that these are individuals attempting to destabilize Pakistan for the creation of Greater Balochistan, where terrorism has become rampant. Unfortunately, such violent activities in Balochistan are often misconstrued as dissatisfaction rather than terrorism. Islamabad lacks clear knowledge of the situation in Balochistan, as they only see one side of the picture. Zehri affirmed that countering terrorism remains a significant challenge for the state, but assured that the government is committed to maintaining peace. Currently, there are around five to six proscribed organizations operating in Balochistan, including the BLA led by Nawabzada Khair Bakhsh Marri’s son, Hairbyar Marri, who is currently in Europe. They are using ordinary Baloch people to kill Punjabis, teachers, doctors, and security personnel with weapons. Another organization is B.R.A., which is run by Nawab Akbar Bugti’s grandson, Brahmadagh Bugti, who is also in Europe. Then there is the Baloch Liberation Army’s Acho group, led by Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s brother, Javed Mengal. These groups are conspiring to conduct terrorism in Balochistan by establishing control with weapons, but it should be made clear that these people cannot be successful against Pakistan’s organized military and constitution. With modern technologies, such as new technology, terrorist organizations’ movements and the availability and transmission of funds can be easily monitored or detected. Furthermore, we also have evidence that Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch is leading the BLF, while Herbyar Marri’s younger brother, Zaman Marri, is leading the UBA. After that, there is the Lashkar Balochistan, led by Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal’s brother, Javaid Mengal. These are just a few groups who are involved in terrorism in Balochistan. We call the shots by force, and we assert our position by force.