Terrorism Foiled in Balochistan: CM Bugti Reveals Major Plot

A terrorism plot aimed at Independence Day celebrations in Balochistan has been foiled, with security forces arresting a university professor allegedly linked to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The keyword “terrorism” dominates the concern, as the incident highlights the depth of extremist infiltration into state institutions and the ongoing efforts to counter it.

A Major Threat Averted

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti announced the breakthrough during a press conference in Quetta. He revealed that the foiled attack was not just a local strike but part of a broader plan to destabilize the province and challenge Pakistan’s unity. “This was more than an attack; it was an attempt to break Pakistan. Our agencies acted decisively and crushed their conspiracy,” Bugti said.

The revelation comes at a time when the province remains under pressure from rising militant activities, many of which are linked to BLA’s Majeed Brigade. The group has previously claimed responsibility for multiple terrorist strikes, making this operation a significant success for counterterrorism agencies.

Professor Turned Facilitator

The arrested suspect, Professor Usman Qazi, was no ordinary citizen. Holding a PhD in Pakistan Studies and employed by the government, Qazi’s involvement has sent shockwaves through academic and civil circles. According to CM Bugti, Qazi admitted on video to his ties with the BLA and detailed how he became associated with the group.

Investigations revealed that Qazi first met individuals connected to the BLA during a visit to Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad. Later, he was recruited by figures identified as Hebtan alias Kalak and Bugti, who introduced him to Basheer Zaib, a key BLA operative.

Role in Past Attacks

Bugti further alleged that Qazi had served as a facilitator in the November 2024 Quetta Railway Station bombing. That attack killed 32 people and injured more than 50. Evidence suggested that Qazi transported the bomber on a motorcycle to a location near the station before handing him over to another handler.

Qazi was also found to be in regular contact with a BLA operative through encrypted messaging apps. In his video confession, he admitted his first task was to provide medical care to one of the group’s fighters. He later offered shelter to the bomber involved in the deadly railway station attack.

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Wide-Ranging Investigations

Bugti revealed that Qazi’s arrest is part of a larger sweep. Between 2,000 and 2,500 government employees are currently under scrutiny for possible links to extremist groups. A dedicated counterterrorism cell has been established in Balochistan to deal specifically with such threats.

The chief minister emphasized that the government is committed to rooting out terrorism and will not tolerate infiltration in any sector of society. “We are the state, not terrorists,” he declared, stressing that extremist elements will be held accountable under the National Action Plan.

Rejecting the Narrative of Deprivation

Bugti also addressed the claim that terrorism in Balochistan is fueled by deprivation. He rejected this narrative outright, citing the professor’s case as evidence. “To those who insist Balochistan is deprived, I ask—in what way was this professor deprived?” he questioned.

Calling such sentiments propaganda, Bugti urged parents to remain vigilant about their children’s activities and warned citizens against aligning with groups like the BLA. “The state will not be blackmailed by extremist elements,” he said firmly.

Persistent Security Challenges

The province has long been plagued by terrorism, with increasing attacks targeting civilians, infrastructure, and security forces. Just last month, armed men ambushed a passenger bus, killing three people. Railway stations have also become frequent targets, adding to the sense of insecurity across Balochistan.

Authorities believe that the foiling of the Independence Day plot underscores both the determination of extremist groups and the resilience of state institutions in countering them. Despite ongoing challenges, the government insists it is committed to restoring peace and stability.

Strengthening Counterterrorism Efforts

The Balochistan government is now intensifying security operations across the province. Officials stress that counterterrorism measures will expand, targeting not only militant networks but also their sympathizers embedded within state structures. Bugti confirmed that future operations will focus on dismantling sleeper cells and tightening monitoring of government employees.

The message from Quetta is clear: terrorism will not be allowed to take root in Balochistan. The government, in coordination with security agencies, is determined to defend the province against extremist forces seeking to disrupt its stability.