Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti said that strengthening and clarifying the state narrative against terrorism is essential as the authority of the state continues to strengthen in society.
He expressed these views while presiding over the 21st meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee in Quetta.
The meeting was attended by senior security officials, Commander Quetta Corps, and other relevant authorities.
Condemnation of Use of Afghan Soil Against Pakistan
During the meeting, participants strongly condemned the use of Afghan territory against Pakistan, describing it as a serious threat to regional peace.
Participants paid tribute to the Pakistan Army for its effective defensive strategy and timely response operations.
The forum also expressed full confidence in the leadership of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and Field Marshal General Asim Munir.
Briefing on Law and Order Situation
The provincial Home Department gave a detailed briefing on the overall law and order situation and ongoing security measures.
According to the briefing:
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721,000 Afghan refugees have been repatriated from Balochistan.
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Overall, nearly one million Afghan nationals have returned via Balochistan routes.
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Operations against illegal foreigners are continuing.
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A reward of Rs50,000 has been announced for providing credible information about illegal foreign residents.
Authorities are also tightening the crackdown on those involved in poppy cultivation.
Crackdown on Financial Crime
The briefing revealed that:
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330 individuals have been placed on the Fourth Schedule.
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Action has been initiated against nine officers allegedly involved in anti-state activities, and show-cause notices have been issued for their dismissal.
The Apex Committee described the public disassociation by families of individuals involved in terrorism as a positive development.
Meanwhile, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) briefed the committee on its actions against hawala, hundi networks, and extortion in Balochistan.
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24 suspects were arrested
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16 individuals were convicted
The committee expressed satisfaction over the improved performance of the FIA and directed authorities to make these actions even more effective.
Education Sector Progress
Officials informed the meeting that 200,000 out-of-school children have been enrolled in educational institutions over the past year.
Biometric attendance systems have also been installed in 10 out of 12 universities across the province.
The Apex Committee directed authorities to ensure that the biometric system is extended to colleges and schools in the next phase.
“State Authority Is Strengthening,” Says CM Bugti
Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said the results of the deterrence policy are beginning to appear, and the authority of the state is strengthening in society.
He stressed that the state narrative against terrorism must be further strengthened and clearly communicated.
Bugti also emphasized the role of education in social mobility.
“The child of a laborer will not remain a laborer. Through education and merit, new opportunities will emerge,” he said.
He noted that five children of laborers were selected in the Pakistan Air Force this year, calling it a proud achievement for the province.
Youth Participation in Security Forces
The Chief Minister highlighted that 28,000 Baloch youth are serving in the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps, describing it as clear evidence of Balochistan’s patriotism.
He said all state institutions are on the same page to ensure peace and stability, adding that no one will be allowed to sabotage peace in the province.
Bugti stressed that development, education, and employment opportunities are the foundation of sustainable peace in Balochistan.
He warned that no leniency will be shown to those spreading anti-state propaganda, and strict action will be taken according to the law.
The participants of the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to implementing decisions aimed at restoring peace, eliminating terrorism, and accelerating development in Balochistan.
