QUETTA: The key commander of the banned militant organisation Baloch National Army (BNA) Sarfraz Bangulzai has surrendered to the state of Pakistan along with 70 other associates, expressing his intentions to integrate into the national fold.

Addressing a press conference in Quetta yesterday, Bangulzai, accompanied by Balochistan Caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai, accused India of funding violence in the province and exploiting women for nefarious purposes to incite youth into joining the movement. "The blood of Baloch people is being shed by Baloch hands. Innocent lives were lost for resisting extortion. Families are living in fear, and the youth are paying the price," expressed Bangulzai.

He said that thousands of Baloch youth were killed during the past 20 years, adding that only in 2014, 155 innocent Baloch people were killed as they refused to give extortion. “What I have done for the past 15 year, I have nothing but regret,” he said. Bangulzai asserted that India funds terrorism and unrest in Balochistan, having personally witnessed the situation during his time in Afghanistan.

"I have seen with my own eyes how India funds terrorism in Balochistan. The so-called Baloch leaders abroad are living comfortable lives while our people suffer," revealed the ex-BNA commander. He stated that both past and present Afghan governments support Baloch separatist leaders, and sympathisers still exist in the neighbouring country.

"Indian money has provided BNA commanders with luxuries. I realised they are enemies of the state, and that's why I decided to disassociate from the Baloch National Army," explained Bangulzai. He recalled his past as a government employee in the food department in Balochistan, owning a home and a car until he was misled by a few individuals in 2009.

"I had a stable life until I was misled. I urge others to lay down their arms and return to a normal life. We need a state policy for reintegration," urged Bangulzai. Regarding the tragic helicopter crash in which six army officers, including Quetta Corps Commander Lt General Sarfraz Ali embraced martyrdom, he said that it happened due to a technical fault and he was a witness to it but BLA accepted its responsibility on India’s directions.

Meanwhile, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has welcomed the development, saying that peace and stability were the government’s top priority. “The surrender of Sarfraz Bungulzai alias Mureed Baloch (the head of BNA) along with his companions/families is a very welcome development for Pakistan & Balochistan.

 This comes at the heels of another major re-integration in which Gulzar Imam Shambay (the previous head of BNA) was arrested and mainstreamed in the recent past,” he wrote on his X handle.

“Embracing peace through inclusivity, our state and institutions are championing an accommodative approach, actively working to reintegrate estranged militants.”

PM Kakar said that this strategic move seeks lasting peace, fostering understanding, and rebuilding communities. “Together, we pave the way for a harmonious and secure future for our next generations. I appreciate the efforts of our Law Enforcers and Intelligence Agencies, especially ISI that planned, executed and led this complicated clandestine operation. May Allah be with you all! Ameen,” he concluded.

Speaking on the occasion, Jan Achakzai emphasised the need to bridge misunderstandings and gaps. He called for the inclusion of disgruntled Baloch individuals into the national mainstream. Achakzai acknowledged the tireless efforts of PM Kakar and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir in addressing the issue.

He specifically mentioned Gulzar Imam Shambay for facilitating negotiations, highlighting the collective agreement to resolve the problems faced by the Baloch population

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 21 2023

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