‘We Will Fight This War’: CM Bugti Says 145 Terrorists Killed in 40 Hours Across Balochistan
Security operations intensify amid escalating insurgency in the province
Balochistan Chief Minister (CM) Akhtar Bugti has declared that security forces killed 145 terrorists in just 40 hours, as counterterrorism operations intensified across the province. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by Pakistani authorities to restore stability in the region, which has faced insurgency, attacks on infrastructure, and sectarian violence for years.
CM Bugti emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating militant networks, stating, “We will fight this war until peace and security are fully restored in Balochistan.” The recent surge in operations highlights both the capabilities of security forces and the scale of the challenges in the province.
The Security Situation in Balochistan
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has long been a focus of security concerns due to insurgent groups targeting government installations, security forces, and civilian infrastructure. In recent months, authorities reported a spike in militant activity, prompting a coordinated response by the military and provincial law enforcement.
Key security issues in Balochistan include:
Armed insurgency groups operating in remote areas
Attacks on roads, bridges, and energy infrastructure
Smuggling and organized crime linked to militant networks
Sectarian and ideological conflicts
The province’s strategic importance, bordering Iran and Afghanistan and hosting major ports, amplifies the impact of security threats on both domestic and regional stability.
Details of the Recent Operations
According to official statements, the security sweep conducted over 40 hours involved:
Combined operations by the army, paramilitary forces, and police
Air and ground surveillance in key districts
Targeted strikes on known militant hideouts
Arrests of suspected insurgents and seizure of weapons
The operations reportedly resulted in 145 terrorists neutralized, though officials have not disclosed the breakdown of casualties versus arrests. CM Bugti described the sweep as part of a broader crackdown on terror networks in Balochistan.
Government and Military Perspective
The provincial government has highlighted the need for decisive action, citing public safety and economic development as priorities. CM Bugti praised the coordination between military and law enforcement agencies, stating that “security forces are fully committed to eliminating threats to peace.”
From a military perspective, operations aim to:
Disrupt militant infrastructure
Prevent attacks on critical projects, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
Enhance the mobility and security of civilians in affected areas
Strengthen intelligence-led counterterrorism measures
Authorities insist that sustained operations are necessary to send a clear message to insurgents that Balochistan will not tolerate violence.
Humanitarian Considerations
While the operations focus on militant networks, there are concerns about civilian safety. Security sweeps in conflict zones carry risks for residents, particularly in remote villages. Authorities have pledged:
Evacuation measures where needed
Communication with local leaders
Humanitarian aid for affected communities
Civilian casualties, if any, are being closely monitored, as public perception plays a crucial role in the legitimacy of counterterrorism campaigns.
Impact on Regional Stability
Balochistan’s security dynamics affect not only Pakistan but also the wider region. The province hosts major economic and strategic projects, including Gwadar Port, which is central to CPEC and regional trade. Ensuring stability is therefore critical to:
Protecting foreign investments
Maintaining uninterrupted trade and logistics
Preventing cross-border spillover of militant activity
Securing energy pipelines and infrastructure
Regional analysts emphasize that persistent insurgency threatens both economic growth and social development in the province.
Political Implications
CM Bugti’s announcement has political resonance as well. Demonstrating a strong stance against militancy is viewed as essential for:
Maintaining public confidence in the provincial government
Strengthening Pakistan’s national security narrative
Reinforcing international perceptions of counterterrorism effectiveness
Political commentators note that such operations, while necessary, must be balanced with long-term development and community engagement to prevent resurgence of militant activity.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the success reported, several challenges remain:
Insurgent groups are highly mobile and often operate in rugged terrain
Recruitment and radicalization in isolated communities continue
Securing economic projects and infrastructure remains difficult
Balancing aggressive operations with humanitarian considerations is delicate
Experts argue that sustained vigilance, intelligence sharing, and community cooperation will be key to maintaining long-term security in Balochistan.
Community and Civil Society Response
Public reaction has been mixed. Many residents express relief at the government’s decisive action, viewing it as a step toward safer communities. However, civil society groups urge caution, highlighting:
The importance of protecting civilian rights
The need for rehabilitation programs for former militants
Development initiatives alongside security operations
Building trust between authorities and local communities remains a critical component of lasting peace.
Conclusion
The announcement by CM Bugti that 145 terrorists were killed in 40 hours underscores the intensity of ongoing counterterrorism operations in Balochistan. While the province continues to face significant security challenges, coordinated efforts by military and law enforcement agencies demonstrate the government’s commitment to restoring stability.
Moving forward, balancing aggressive security measures with humanitarian and development initiatives will be essential to ensure that Balochistan not only survives current threats but also thrives as a peaceful and prosperous region.
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