ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee in Quetta to review the security and law and order situation in Balochistan, as the government intensified efforts to address the recent surge in militant attacks across the province.
The meeting, held under the National Action Plan (NAP), focused on counterterrorism measures, intelligence coordination, and the overall security landscape in Balochistan. Senior civil and military leadership briefed the prime minister on the latest developments and ongoing operations aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the province.
PM Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Quetta on a one-day visit and was received by Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, and senior civilian and military officials. The visit comes at a critical time as security forces continue operations following a series of deadly attacks targeting both security personnel and civilians.
The Apex Committee meeting was attended by Field Marshal and Chief of Defence Forces Syed Asim Munir, Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, senior military commanders, top government officials, and heads of law enforcement agencies. Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Adviser to the Prime Minister Senator Rana Sanaullah also participated in the session.
Officials briefed the prime minister on the prevailing security challenges, intelligence-based operations, and steps being taken to strengthen coordination among security institutions. The participants also reviewed the implementation of the National Action Plan and discussed measures to enhance public safety, counterterrorism capabilities, and border security.
The meeting followed recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan that resulted in significant casualties among security personnel and civilians. According to Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, 42 people, including 11 soldiers, 27 police personnel, and four civilians, lost their lives in three separate attacks allegedly carried out by Fitna al Khwarij (FAK) and Fitna Al-Hindustan (FAH).
Speaking at a press conference a day earlier, the ISPR chief said Pakistani security forces launched intelligence-based and follow-up operations after the attacks, killing 54 militants. He also alleged that India was involved in orchestrating terrorist activities in Balochistan, stating that Pakistan's armed forces responded swiftly to neutralize the threats.
The federal government has reiterated its commitment to restoring lasting peace in Balochistan through enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated counterterrorism operations, and effective implementation of the National Action Plan. The Quetta Apex Committee meeting underscored the government's focus on strengthening national security and ensuring stability in one of Pakistan's most strategically important provinces.
