Security forces in Balochistan have arrested a female suicide bomber, foiling a major terrorist plot, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference along with provincial Home Minister Mir Zia Langove and other officials, the chief minister commended the timely action of security agencies, describing it as a significant development for peace and stability in the province.
Officials identified the suspect as Laiba, a 19-year-old resident of Khuzdar. During the briefing, she reportedly said she had been recruited and radicalised for a suicide mission by a militant commander identified as Ibrahim.
She further disclosed that she had been assigned the task of recruiting and training other young women for similar attacks, according to officials.
CM Bugti alleged that militant elements were operating from Afghanistan, which he described as a safe haven for such groups. He added that militant organisations were exploiting women and misleading individuals under the guise of ethnic narratives.
He maintained that the people of Balochistan reject terrorism and are cooperating with law enforcement agencies by sharing intelligence.
Security sources said the intelligence-based operation led to the arrest and uncovered links with banned outfits, including the Balochistan Liberation Army. Investigators also traced connections with other militant networks and facilitators.
The chief minister said improved intelligence-sharing had resulted in several successful operations in recent months, preventing large-scale attacks and saving lives.
He also emphasised the importance of community engagement and awareness to counter extremism, particularly among youth and women, adding that the government was focusing on education and employment opportunities to curb radicalisation.
Officials said further measures would be taken to strengthen law enforcement and ensure lasting peace in the province.
