On August 14, 2025, a Balochistan terror attack was heroically stopped by security agencies. A planned suicide bombing set to disrupt Independence Day celebrations, saving numerous lives, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti declared. Speaking at a press conference in Quetta, he revealed that the Balochistan Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and police arrested a would-be suicide bomber, averting a tragedy targeting citizens celebrating Pakistan’s independence. The operation exposed the escalating tactics of the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), whose recent attacks have intensified unrest in the province. Bugti’s announcement conveyed relief and determination, praising the courage of those who protected the public, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensure lasting peace, unity, and resilience against terrorism.
Confession of a Scholar-Turned-Terrorist
The arrested individual, Dr Mohammad Usman Kazi, a Grade-18 lecturer at Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences, shocked authorities with his admission. Holding a Master’s from Quaid-i-Azam University and a PhD from Peshawar University, Kazi confessed to aiding the November 2024 Quetta Railway Station bombing, which killed 32 and injured over 50. In his recorded statement, he described transporting a suicide bomber to the attack site and handing him to another handler. As a member of the BLA’s elite “sophisticated” tier, his involvement revealed a disturbing betrayal by an educated professional.
Challenging the Myth of Deprivation
Bugti firmly rejected claims that Balochistan’s militancy arises from marginalisation. Highlighting Kazi’s privileged life, with a government-employed wife and a pension-receiving mother, he questioned how such individuals could be considered deprived. He criticised narratives, recently echoed at a multi-party conference in Islamabad, that seem to justify violence against Pakistan. Bugti pointed to Kazi’s state-funded education and job, urging citizens to dismiss propaganda portraying terrorists as victims. His words struck a chord, reflecting the exhaustion of a province longing for peace amid ongoing violence.
Broadening the Fight Against Terror
This successful operation marks a milestone, with Bugti noting it as the first capture of a BLA Majeed Brigade leader from its “sophisticated” tier. The arrests shed light on connections to previous attacks, including the Quetta Railway Station bombing. Bugti disclosed that investigations into 2,000 to 2,500 government employees led to suspensions and terminations, signaling a robust response to complicity. He also addressed the arrest of Kazi’s associates, warning that families protecting terrorists would face legal action. This approach balances strict enforcement with an invitation for dialogue to address the root causes.
Urging Unity and Awareness
Bugti called on Balochistan’s residents to remain vigilant and avoid those spreading chaos. He highlighted the BLA’s tactics of manipulating youth and involving women in attacks, urging parents to safeguard their children. Criticising past provincial governments for inaction, he encouraged political parties to unite against terrorism. While affirming that dialogue remains an option, Bugti vowed to confront those threatening innocent lives. The arrest of the would-be bomber and Kazi’s confession underscore the persistent danger and the need for collective resolve to ensure safety, especially after the Balochistan terror attack foiled by security agencies..
Resilience Amid Ongoing Threats in Balochistan
The Balochistan terror attack foiled on Independence Day highlights both the province’s challenges and the strength of its security forces and the people. Bugti’s leadership, paired with the CTD’s swift response, prevented a tragedy that could have overshadowed a day of national pride and unity. As investigations progress, the hope is for a Balochistan where unity, vigilance, and collective resolve overcome division, fear, and extremism, paving the way for lasting peace, stability, and security across the province.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 18th, 2025
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