QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has pledged to step up efforts against terrorism, urging closer coordination between political authorities, security forces and state institutions to tackle security challenges in Pakistan’s south-western province.
Chairing the 26th meeting of the Hardening of the State Conference in Quetta on Wednesday, Bugti reviewed the overall security situation in Balochistan and assessed ongoing counterterrorism measures aimed at curbing terrorist activities and restoring stability.
The meeting expressed satisfaction over progress made under Operation Shaban, a joint security campaign being carried out by the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps Balochistan and police against terrorist groups operating in the province. Participants agreed to further enhance intelligence-sharing and coordinated operations to dismantle terrorist networks.
Paying tribute to security personnel killed in recent attacks, including incidents in Hanna Urak and Mangi Dam, the conference honoured their sacrifices and reaffirmed that operations against terrorists would continue until terrorism was eliminated.
“Those involved in terrorism and their facilitators will be brought to justice,” Bugti said, stressing that there was no space in Balochistan for individuals or groups working against the state.
The chief minister said maintaining peace required more than security operations alone, highlighting the need for governance reforms, economic development and improved public services, particularly in remote and underdeveloped parts of the province.
He said the provincial government was working closely with federal authorities and security institutions to strengthen law enforcement, improve administrative systems and accelerate development initiatives aimed at addressing long-standing challenges.
The conference was attended by senior officials from federal and provincial departments, the army, Frontier Corps, Pakistan Coast Guards, police, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Customs and other relevant institutions.
The participants concluded the meeting with a renewed commitment to strengthening the writ of the state, protecting citizens and pursuing coordinated efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Balochistan.
