By our correspondent
QUETTA: More than a hundred men, including a senior commander of a banned terrorist group, surrendered their weapons in Balochistan’s Sui area in a move that officials described as one of the most significant reconciliatory breakthroughs in recent months. Provincial authorities said the group renounced violence, pledged allegiance to Pakistan, and ceremonially hoisted the national flag during an event attended by tribal elders and security officials.
The terrorists, led by commander Wadera Noor Ali Chakarani, handed over rifles and ammunition to provincial minister Mir Aftab Ahmed Bugti. Footage from the ceremony showed stacks of firearms and rounds of ammunition being laid down as the men vowed to abandon militancy and reintegrate into mainstream society. The surrender was framed by officials as a demonstration of the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with those prepared to embrace peace.
Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti congratulated the commander and his associates, describing their decision as “a commendable step towards peace”. He emphasized that the reintegration sent a clear message that the state remained open to reconciliation, even as intelligence-driven operations continued against armed groups who refused to abandon violence. “Those who embrace the constitution and renounce militancy will always be welcomed,” Bugti said, “but anyone who misinterprets the state’s leniency as weakness will be pursued to the last breath.”
Officials said the program aimed to address long-standing grievances in Balochistan, a resource-rich region that has experienced sporadic violence and insurgent activity for years. By offering a pathway back into society for former terrorists, authorities hoped to reduce tensions and foster stability, while continuing targeted action against those who continued to pose a threat.
