Large number of terrorists active in Balochistan: report

ISLAMABAD: Balochistan has seen an uptick in terror incidents as a large number of terrorists are operating in various areas of the province.

According to documents available with HUM Investigation Team (HIT), scores of trained terrorists associated with different terrorist organisations have entered the districts of Loralai, Qila Abdullah, Panjgur and Ziarat from Afghanistan.

According to the documents, Balochistan is grappling with various terrorist organizations that are classified into three primary categories: global, regional, and local. These categories encompass hostile intelligence agencies, international terrorist outfits, cross-border terrorism, sub-nationalist outlaws, religious groups, Afghan refugee elements, sectarian violence, and anti-Punjabi sentiments.

Diverse Terrorist Groups Identified

The report outlines two major categories of these organisations: religious extremists and nationalist-separatists. Religious-sectarian terrorist organizations include Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, IS-Khurasan, Jamat ul Ahrar, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ), Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (Al-Almi), and Al Qaida Indian Sub-Continent (AQIS). The second category comprises Baloch sub-nationalists (BSN’s), including the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), the Baloch Republican Army (BRA), the United Baloch Army (UBA), Lashkar-e-Balochistan (LeB), and the Baloch Republican Guard (BRG). Hostile intelligence agencies and foreign-funded groups also fall into this category.

The report outlines two major categories of these organizations: religious extremists and nationalist-separatists. Religious-sectarian terrorist organizations include Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, IS-Khurasan, Jamat ul Ahrar, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ), Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (Al-Almi), and Al Qaida Indian Sub-Continent (AQIS). The second category comprises Baloch sub-nationalists (BSN’s), including the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), the Baloch Republican Army (BRA), the United Baloch Army (UBA), Lashkar-e-Balochistan (LeB), and the Baloch Republican Guard (BRG). Hostile intelligence agencies and foreign-funded groups also fall into this category.

Upcoming Challenges

Ensuring the security of CPEC installations and related projects in the Kalat range is of paramount importance. Any terrorist attack or mishap could have significant repercussions, not only for this region but for Pakistan as a whole. The report underscores the need for stringent vigilance and enhanced security, recognizing the challenges posed by the existing police manpower.

Rising Terrorism Incidents

The report highlights a notable increase in terrorism incidents within the Kalat range, including attacks on law enforcement personnel such as targeted killings, improvised explosive device (IED) explosions, and suicide attacks. Despite these challenges, the Kalat range police remain dedicated to maintaining law and order, with coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies.

Manpower Shortage

The shortage of manpower, particularly in recent years, has become a pressing issue. This shortage is exacerbated by frequent VVIP visits, the need to secure foreigners, and protect CPEC installations. The conversion of the entire Lasbela and Hub districts into “A” areas further strains police personnel.

Shortage of Police Infrastructure

The expanding scope of policing in Lasbela and Hub districts, as key industrial and CPEC areas, necessitates immediate reinforcement of police infrastructure. Addressing this deficiency is vital for effectively addressing upcoming challenges from a policing perspective.

Security Scenario and Crime

Once considered one of the most peaceful areas in the Pashtun belt of Balochistan, the Loralai range has seen an influx of miscreants from terrorist organizations, particularly following the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan. While security forces have made progress in stabilizing the region, the presence of relatives and sympathizers of banned organizations in Loralai, along with Afghan refugee camps, poses security challenges.

Challenges in the Mekran Range

The Mekran range also faces significant security concerns, given the presence of CPEC installations. Ensuring their security is imperative, as any misadventure could have far-reaching consequences for Pakistan. Despite these challenges, the Mekran police remain focused on combating terrorism and safeguarding the public.

Tackling the Manpower Shortage

The shortage of manpower is particularly acute in Gwadar due to massive protests, frequent VVIP visits, foreigner security requirements, and the CPEC’s presence. The conversion of the entire Gwadar district into an “A” area further compounds the challenges faced by the district police.

Addressing Infrastructure Deficiencies

Recognizing the expanding scope of policing in Gwadar, the report emphasizes the urgent need to reinforce the current police infrastructure. Such improvements are vital to effectively meet future challenges and ensure the region’s security and stability.