Security forces have arrested a key terrorist commander in Quetta who was working as a university lecturer, sources said on Monday.
According to details, the suspect was affiliated with a banned militant organisation and was taken into custody on August 12, a day after the arrest of a suicide bomber. The attacker, who had been planning a major strike on Independence Day, revealed the lecturer’s identity during interrogation.
The arrested suspect is accused of involvement in the 2024 Quetta railway station attack and of training dozens of militants, sources added. Security officials are continuing investigations to dismantle the wider network and prevent future threats.
Meanwhile, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry reiterated that ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Balochistan are solely targeting terrorists and their facilitators, not civilians.
Speaking during an interactive session with students from the province under the ISPR internship programme, Lt Gen Chaudhry said peace can only be achieved through active participation of local communities. He praised the sacrifices and resilience of Balochistan’s people, highlighting the increasing role of youth, women and children in shaping the province’s future.
The DG ISPR emphasized Pakistan’s unity and diversity, noting that the people of Balochistan remain committed to their bond with the country. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of the armed forces, including the services of Major Muhammad Anwar Kakar, in the ongoing struggle against terrorism.