Activists from Chakrani tribe pledge loyalty to Pakistan; Five terrorists killed in Dera Bugti IBO, says ISPR
RAWALPINDI/DERA BUGTI:
Five terrorists were killed during an Intelligence Operation (IBO) in Dera Bugti district of Balochistan, the Army said in a statement on Saturday. The development came on the day more than 100 former militants – including a top commander of the banned Baloch Republican Army (BRA) – voluntarily surrendered in what is being described as a major development for security and reconciliation efforts in the volatile province.
Acting on intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists belonging to “Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan”, security forces carried out an operation in Dera Bugti on December 5, the army’s media wing, ISPR, said in the statement. “The forces actually attacked the position of the terrorists and after an intense exchange of fire, five Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” the statement added.
The military uses the term Fitna al-Hindustan to refer to Baloch separatist terrorist groups that officials say receive logistical and material support from India’s RAW intelligence agency as part of the “Doval Doctrine,” which uses hybrid warfare — including supporting terrorist groups — to destabilize Pakistan.
“Arms, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the slain terrorists were “actively involved in many terrorist activities in the region”. The army added that a search operation was underway to purge the area of any remaining terrorists.
“A relentless counter-terrorism campaign carried out under the ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ vision by the security and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue in full swing to eliminate the menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism,” the ISPR added, referring to the strategy approved by the Supreme Federal Committee under the National Action Plan.
In related news, Wadera Noor Ali Chakrani, commander of the Brahumdagh Bugti faction of the BRA, along with over 100 former militants, surrendered their weapons at a ceremony in Sui, Dera Bugti. The group raised the national flag and publicly pledged their commitment to peaceful living. The event was attended by important local figures, including Mir Aftab Ahmed Bugti, who welcomed the decision and encouraged their reintegration into society.
Speaking on the occasion, Bugti urged other activists still hiding in the surrounding mountainous areas to renounce violence and return to the fold of the state. “Last peace requires collective responsibility and mutual understanding between communities and authorities,” he added.
Sui City Chairman Izzatullah Aman Bugti appreciated the Balochistan Chief Minister’s approach, saying a combination of firm security operations and community outreach helped restore trust among Baloch people. “Such developments reflect the positive results of merging effective policing measures with public-centered policies,” he said, referring to the surrender of former activists.
“These changes show that strong action, when supported by inclusive initiatives, can reshape the security environment,” said Aman Bugti, adding that cooperation between residents and institutions is vital for long-term progress in Balochistan.
Officials say the integration of members of the Chakrani tribe – one of the main tribes in Dera Bugti – deals both an operational and psychological blow to the BRA, likely weakening the group’s ability to recruit, extort and carry out violent activities in the volatile province.
Given the strategic importance of Dera Bugti as the historic heart of Pakistan’s natural gas supply, improving security in the district is also described as strengthening energy stability and economic resilience.
The collective return of former activists is seen as a public rejection of the violence-based narrative advanced by anti-state elements. Officials say the move reflects growing trust between local communities and the state, as well as recognition that dignity and long-term development lie in political engagement rather than armed conflict.
Security observers say the perception environment in Dera Bugti has changed in recent years, driven by the expansion of development initiatives and disillusionment with foreign-backed militant agendas.
The reinstatement of more than 100 former activists is also interpreted as a message addressed to “hostile agencies”, notably RAW, accused of exploiting Baloch youth for geopolitical purposes. Officials say the return of these activists indicates that outside attempts to destabilize Balochistan are increasingly failing, with local communities refusing to be used as proxies.
Earlier, prominent militant commanders such as Sarfraz Bangulzai of the United Baloch Army and Gulzar Imam Shambay, founder of the Baloch Nationalist Army had also surrendered, publicly alleging foreign support for the armed groups. Officials say these developments have helped weaken the credibility of separatist groups and opened the way for dialogue.
Government officials reiterated their policy of encouraging reconciliation with those who have been misled or forced into activism but are willing to reintegrate peacefully.
Officials say the state distinguishes between conciliatory activists and hardline activists supported by foreign actors. “Those who return will regain dignity; those who persist in violence will isolate themselves,” said an official.
Local authorities and leaders have emphasized the need for a structured reintegration program for the Chakrani tribe, including jobs, education, healthcare, vocational training, women’s initiatives and support for small businesses and agriculture. These measures, they say, are essential to ensure the long-term success of peace efforts.
Officials urged those still involved in armed activities to reconsider, saying their families and communities want peace and stability. “The state is ready to welcome back those who renounce violence and return with honor,” added an official.
