Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Quetta on Thursday to address the recent surge in terrorist attacks across Balochistan, which have claimed the lives of over two dozen individuals.
During his visit, the prime minister will lead a high-level meeting to review the security and law and order situation in the province. Accompanying him are Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, and Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan.
The recent violence includes an attack on Monday where 23 passengers were killed after being forcibly removed from buses and trucks in Balochistan’s Musakhel area. Additionally, a separate gun attack in Kalat resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people, including police and Balochistan Levies personnel. In another incident, 14 security forces and law enforcement personnel were killed during clearance operations following earlier terrorist attacks.
In response, both federal and provincial authorities have vowed strong measures. PM Shehbaz Sharif has ruled out negotiations with terrorists, stating that dialogue is only available to those who respect Pakistan’s Constitution and flag. Federal Interior Minister Naqvi emphasized the need to target those supporting these attacks.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti has promised decisive action against the terrorists, asserting that revenge will be taken for the recent killings without launching a major operation. He criticized the attackers as terrorists targeting innocent people, rather than disgruntled Balochs seeking legitimate grievances.
