The Balochistan Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on Thursday claimed that militant outfits were using the Balochistan Yakjehti Committee (BYC) as a platform to recruit and mobilise young people. The allegations came during a joint press conference addressed by CTD Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Aitzaz Goraya and Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat in Quetta.
Read More: Maduro appears in Manhattan over drug charges
Goraya announced the arrest of a Turbat-based suspect, identified as Sajid Ahmad alias Shahwaiz, during an operation in Panjgur. Law enforcement agencies said they recovered a significant cache of weapons and explosives from his vehicle, including an RPG launcher, rockets, M-16 rifles, grenades, C4 slabs, detonating cord and remote switches.
According to CTD, Sajid was travelling from Panjgur to Turbat when he was intercepted. Officials stated he holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and had previously taught at Zubaida Jalal Government College and the University of Turbat.
The DIG alleged that Sajid maintained links with the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and had been “in communication” with BYC leadership. Investigators claimed to have recovered digital material showing reconnaissance details of sites in Turbat, including government installations and security-related routes.
Goraya further said three other individuals had been arrested, including 18-year-old Sarfaraz from Kharan, who was allegedly tasked with gathering information on police and polio duty routes. The CTD claimed he was first made to join BYC and take part in protests and roadblocks.
Another suspect, identified as 20-year-old Jahanzaib alias Mehrbaan, was accused of recruiting others, facilitating extortion transfers, and participating in BYC demonstrations. Officials claimed he later inducted an 18-year-old named Bezan, who allegedly joined the BLA.
Read More: Iranian president Pezeshkian begins first official visit to Pakistan
The CTD alleged that militant networks were exploiting youth due to minimal security checks in schools and colleges. It linked these activities to a group it referred to as “Fitna al-Hindustan”, a term the state applies to Balochistan-based militant outfits it accuses of receiving Indian backing.