Abdul Basit Alvi
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province in terms of area, holds paramount importance within the country due to its strategic location and abundant resources. Positioned in the southwest, Balochistan is endowed with substantial natural wealth, serves as a pivotal access point to key maritime trade routes, and plays a vital role in safeguarding national security. Recognizing Balochistan’s significance is pivotal for understanding Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape and broader geopolitical dynamics. Abundant in resources like natural gas, coal, copper, gold, and various minerals, Balochistan contributes significantly to Pakistan’s overall mineral wealth, presenting vast opportunities for economic expansion and industrial development. The utilization of these resources not only bolsters the national economy but also generates employment prospects for locals, propelling socio-economic advancement in the region. Strategically positioned, Balochistan holds considerable geopolitical importance for Pakistan, sharing borders with Iran and Afghanistan. This geographical positioning makes it a crucial junction in the geopolitics of South Asia and the Middle East. Additionally, its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for a substantial portion of the world’s oil shipments, further underscores its strategic relevance in global energy security. Balochistan boasts an extensive coastline along the Arabian Sea, with the port city of Gwadar emerging as a pivotal maritime center. Developed in collaboration with China as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the deep-sea port of Gwadar provides unparalleled access to global trade routes, facilitating maritime commerce and strengthening Pakistan’s connectivity with Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Given its borders with volatile regions like Afghanistan and Iran, Balochistan plays a crucial role in safeguarding Pakistan’s national security, acting as a buffer against external threats and bolstering the country’s defense capabilities. Furthermore, the presence of insurgent groups and militant organizations in Balochistan necessitates robust counterterrorism measures to uphold internal stability and prevent cross-border infiltration. Balochistan is home to a diverse array of ethnic and cultural communities, including the Baloch, Pashtun, Brahui, and Hazara, among others. This cultural diversity enriches Pakistan’s national identity and highlights the country’s pluralistic ethos. Promoting harmony between provinces and fostering inclusivity are vital for preserving Pakistan’s social fabric and harnessing the potential of Balochistan’s diverse populace. Regrettably, Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, has long grappled with terrorism, insurgency, and separatist movements. Situated at the nexus of regional geopolitics, Balochistan’s strategic importance, combined with its intricate socio-economic dynamics, has made it a focal point for various militant groups seeking to further their agendas through violence and intimidation. The history of insurgency and terrorism in Balochistan dates back to the post-colonial era. The proliferation of militant groups, ranging from nationalist movements to sectarian factions and foreign-sponsored proxies, has added layers of complexity to the province’s security landscape. Terrorism in Balochistan manifests in various forms, including attacks on security forces, targeted assassinations, bombings, and sabotage of infrastructure. The province has witnessed a series of violent incidents orchestrated by separatist and anti-state groups. Additionally, sectarian violence fueled by religious extremism has led to numerous casualties, exacerbating inter-communal tensions and undermining social cohesion. The government of Pakistan has implemented diverse counterterrorism strategies in Balochistan, encompassing military operations, development initiatives, and efforts to engage with local communities. These efforts have achieved some successes in disrupting militant networks and fostering stability in specific regions. In the rugged and isolated terrain of Balochistan, the threat of terrorism is significant, largely orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Over the years, this separatist militant organization has been engaged in a violent struggle, aiming for increased autonomy or complete independence for the Baloch people. To grasp the nuances of terrorism in Balochistan, a thorough examination of the BLA’s motivations, strategies, and the socio-political context in which it operates is essential. The BLA emerged in the early 2000s as a prominent militant group purportedly advocating for Baloch rights. Consisting of nationalist and separatist factions, the BLA has conducted a series of violent actions targeting Pakistani security forces, government officials, and critical infrastructure. Their methods encompass bombings, ambushes, and assassinations, all aimed at destabilizing the region and asserting their demands for independence or increased autonomy. In the challenging terrain of Balochistan, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has left a trail of violence and fear, carrying out numerous attacks in pursuit of its separatist goals. From targeted killings to large-scale bombings, the BLA’s strategies have instilled fear and uncertainty in the region, leaving a profound impact on Balochistan’s socio-political landscape. Examining some of the most notorious incidents orchestrated by the BLA sheds light on the group’s tactics and the severe repercussions of terrorism in the province. In one of its most infamous assaults, the BLA targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a significant infrastructure project in the Kharan district in 2006. This ambush resulted in the deaths of several engineers and security personnel, highlighting the group’s opposition to projects like the Gwadar port and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The incident not only resulted in loss of lives but also strained diplomatic ties between Pakistan and China, raising concerns about the security of foreign investments in Balochistan. Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, has frequently borne the brunt of BLA violence. In 2008, a series of coordinated bombings rocked the city, targeting government buildings and security installations, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries. Similarly, in 2010, a suicide bombing aimed at a police station in Quetta claimed several officers and civilians, further escalating tensions in the volatile region. In a symbolic strike, the BLA targeted the historic Ziarat Residency, the former residence of Pakistan’s founding father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in 2013. This iconic building, representing national heritage, was set ablaze by BLA militants, causing extensive damage and sending shockwaves across the country. This attack underscored the group’s disregard for historical landmarks and cultural heritage in their pursuit of separatism. One of the deadliest incidents attributed to the BLA occurred in Mastung district in 2018, where a suicide bomber targeted a political rally, resulting in the deaths of over a hundred people, including political figures and civilians. Claimed by the BLA, this attack aimed to disrupt the democratic process and sow chaos ahead of general elections, serving as a grim reminder of the group’s willingness to inflict mass casualties to achieve political goals. The BLA has also targeted critical infrastructure, such as gas pipelines and power installations, as part of its campaign to disrupt economic activity and undermine the Pakistani state. These attacks not only incur financial losses but also worsen the province’s energy crisis, intensifying the feeling of deprivation and alienation among the local populace. In recent weeks, there has been an uptick in actions in Balochistan by purported supporters of the Baloch people aiming to instill fear. Having failed to disrupt security and infrastructure, the Baloch Liberation Army has reverted to its original tactics. In a recent act of cowardice, they stopped the Makka coach from Quetta to Taftan on National Highway N-40 at Nushki and killed nine innocent laborers. These terrorists are not involved in any legitimate struggle for rights; instead, they are criminals, thieves, and anti-national elements causing harm in various ways. They receive substantial rewards from enemy intelligence agencies for perpetrating such terrorist acts. Not only do these unscrupulous individuals rob laborers seeking employment opportunities, but they also resort to violence against them. Their aim is to spread fear and panic in society while conducting terrorist activities against the state and its institutions. Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the leader of the Baloch Solidarity Committee, and her fellow journalists, who are purported human rights advocates but are accused of defaming the state and its institutions under the guise of advocating for missing persons, are unable to justify the killing of these nine innocent citizens. They fail to express solidarity and offer condolences to the families of these victims of violence. They lack the moral courage to condemn terrorist acts and terrorism. Indeed, those who support terrorism and terrorists or speak in their favor cannot be considered patriotic or loyal to the people of Balochistan and the state of Pakistan. In an era marked by global uncertainties, terrorism emerges as a prominent threat to peace, stability, and human security. As nations contend with the multifaceted challenges posed by extremist ideologies and violent actions, it becomes the duty of governments to confront these threats with steadfast determination and robust measures. Dealing strictly with terrorists is not merely an option but a fundamental obligation in safeguarding societies and upholding the rule of law. The Pakistani Government and the Pakistan Army are taking robust and decisive actions to eradicate terrorism from the country. Recently, General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), presided over the 264th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at GHQ. The forum paid tribute to the supreme sacrifices of Shuhadas, including officers and personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies, and citizens who have laid down their lives for peace and stability in the country. COAS commended the tireless efforts of the Pakistan Army and law enforcement agencies in successfully thwarting numerous terrorist attacks and neutralizing key terrorist commanders during ongoing counterterrorism operations. COAS instructed commanders to actively prevent terrorists from gaining any foothold. COAS stated, “The Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) of Pakistan, with full support from the resilient nation, are resolute in permanently eradicating this threat from Pakistan, by the grace of God.” The conference condemned the heartless terrorist attack targeting Chinese nationals in Besham, as well as the cruel killings of innocent civilians in Baluchistan. The participants were briefed on how terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan pose a threat to regional and global security, while also serving as proxies against Pakistan and its economic interests, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In Pakistan, when the government and law enforcement agencies take decisive actions against terrorist elements, purported human rights advocates promptly intervene. Interestingly, these advocates often remain silent when other countries implement even stricter measures against such elements within their territories. Our judicial system is widely recognized for its flaws and delays, often resulting in cases dragging on for years and leading to the wrongful conviction of innocent individuals while the actual perpetrators evade justice. In such circumstances, whenever our agencies detain someone for investigation and evidence gathering, accusations of coercive and illegal arrests frequently arise. I firmly believe that our agencies do not apprehend innocent individuals without cause, and there is always substance behind these arrests. If someone is innocent and has not acted against the state or the armed forces, there should be no grounds for their apprehension. Behind every missing person, there is always a story, and our religion emphasizes the love for our country, the nation that has granted us identity and freedom. Therefore, it is the duty of every individual to recognize the significance of our freedom, an independent nation, and a patriotic armed forces. While it may be tempting to immediately blame agencies for allegedly capturing innocents, it is crucial to remember that many of these arrests have led to the identification of numerous terrorists, anti-state elements, and foreign agents. Terrorists rarely confess to their crimes voluntarily, and thorough investigations are essential for extracting information from them. National security is a non-negotiable priority, and no country compromises on this aspect. I have encountered numerous columnists and journalists who consistently criticize agencies, often focusing on only one aspect of the situation. In presenting a comprehensive and truthful perspective, I aim to address those who question why some individuals disappear. I do not claim that all missing persons are guilty, as it is not my role or that of journalists to make such judgments. Only a thorough investigation can determine the innocence or guilt of individuals. Several factors contribute to the phenomenon of missing persons. Importantly, not all individuals reported missing are within the jurisdiction of law enforcement agencies; some have connections to terrorist organizations and are involved in activities against the state. Individuals associated with terrorism may go into hiding to avoid arrest. Additionally, some people go missing due to personal vendettas, seeking shelter in remote areas to evade potential retaliation from adversaries. Others may be involved in cross-border smuggling and various criminal activities, leading them to evade detection by remaining in hiding. The categorization of these individuals as missing persons can be deliberate or inadvertent, influenced by deliberate actions or a lack of awareness. Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies have consistently committed themselves to safeguarding fundamental human rights as mandated by the constitution. In pursuit of this goal, Pakistan’s security forces have made numerous sacrifices to secure the well-being of individuals and society. However, despite their unwavering dedication, these agencies often face unjust accusations regarding missing persons disappearances, unsupported by evidence. Furthermore, a deliberate social media campaign spreads this misinformation, fostering misconceptions among the public. The issue of missing persons is pervasive worldwide, and Pakistan is no exception, with various factors contributing to its exacerbation. While human rights organizations tend to scrutinize security forces, they often overlook the underlying factors or ground realities. Voluntary disappearances, sometimes mistaken for enforced disappearances, are prevalent, with instances of individuals choosing to vanish without notifying their families. Furthermore, investigations reveal cases where individuals deliberately disappear to evade arrest by law enforcement agencies. Additionally, identifying abandoned deceased individuals poses a significant challenge. Based on meticulous statistics from Edhi and Chippa, over 35,000 abandoned bodies have been interred throughout the country solely by these two NGOs since 2005. It’s crucial to distinguish between cases of missing persons and enforced disappearances, as often, missing individuals are later discovered to have been casualties of security force actions during counterterrorism operations in the country. For instance, in a past incident, terrorist Karim Jan, listed as missing, was killed during an attack on the Gwadar Port Authority complex. His sister formally requested his body following the incident. Similarly, the sister of terrorist Abdul Wadud Satakzai had been searching for her brother since August 12, 2021, before learning of his death in the Mach attack. When compared to other nations, it becomes evident that the issue of missing persons is a significant global concern, extending to developed countries such as the US, UK, and Europe, as indicated by credible sources from various nations. A comparative analysis of missing persons reports underscores the gravity of this issue. In the US, the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) reported 521,705 cases in its 2021 publication on the FBI website. The UK’s Missing Persons Unit (MPU) data for 2020/21 documented 241,064 cases. A 2018 news report in Germany cited 11,000 missing persons. In India, the number of cases reached 347,524 in 2018. According to the Asian Federation against Involuntary Disappearances (AFAD), Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&K) witnessed 8,000 cases from 1989 to 2012. Nepal reported 10,418 cases in the year 2020/21. These statistics vividly depict the widespread occurrence of missing persons cases and the persistent challenges countries encounter in addressing this issue. The Government of Pakistan is actively engaged in ongoing efforts to locate missing persons. In this context, the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances (CoIoED), succeeding the Commission on Missing Persons established in 2011 under the Ministry of Interior, is diligently addressing this issue. As of March 2024, the Commission has recorded a total of 10,203 cases, with 7,901 cases successfully resolved. However, 2,302 cases remain unresolved. Although the reported number of “missing persons” cases in Pakistan is relatively low, both domestic and international actors have made deliberate efforts to portray Pakistan as a country with a significant number of missing persons. There is undeniable evidence of banned Baloch militants engaging Pakistani nationals for terrorist activities, offering lucrative compensation to sow instability within Pakistan. Simultaneously, despite the relatively low count of “missing persons” cases in Pakistan, both domestic and foreign adversaries have attempted to depict Pakistan as a nation with a substantial population of missing individuals. These hostile entities utilize figures like Dr. Mahrang Baloch to disseminate false propaganda and instigate hatred against the country. Dr. Mahrang & Co. is attempting to exploit public sentiments against the state by presenting a distorted picture. Readers, it is evident that the BLA and its leaders are merely using the issue of missing persons as a political tool. They have no genuine concern for the actual issues faced by the people of Balochistan. The people of Pakistan and Balochistan recognize the true intentions of these anti-state elements and wholeheartedly support the concrete measures taken by the government and the Pakistani Army to combat terrorism.
