Most wanted Balochistan militant commanders, new recruits surrender in Quetta

QUETTA: Two top militant commanders from Balochistan, along with two young men recently recruited by militant groups, have surrendered and pledged to join the national mainstream, rejecting the path of violence.

In a press conference held in Quetta on Friday, former commanders of the banned Balochistan Republican Party (BRP), Najeebullah and Abdul Rasheed, announced their decision to renounce the so-called Baloch liberation movement. They were joined by Balochistan Minister Mir Zahoor Buledi, Chief Minister’s Advisor Meena Majeed Baloch, and DIG CTD, Aetzaz Ahmed Goraya.

Najeebullah, who had been a part of the terrorist organizations for over 14 years, shared his experiences and revealed how he had been manipulated and brainwashed as a teenager into joining the militant group. He expressed regret for being used by external forces to fuel instability in Pakistan, stating, “The so-called fighters in the mountains don’t even have proper meals a day, while terrorist commanders live lavishly abroad and ignore us.”

He emphasized that many young Baloch are now seeking to join the national mainstream, hoping for a better future. Najeebullah also shared that his past commanders, including Dr. Allah Nazar, Bashir Zaib, and Bramadagh Bugti, had lured him and other youth into terrorism while leading comfortable lives abroad. He called on the government to facilitate the return of more youths to the national fold.

Abdul Rasheed, also known as Khudaidad or Kamash, shared his journey from joining the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) in 2009 to becoming a senior commander. After realizing the true nature of the terrorist organizations, Rasheed made the decision to part ways and surrendered to the government. He thanked the state for offering him the opportunity to reintegrate into society.

The two former commanders’ decisions to renounce violence are seen as a significant step in reducing extremism in Balochistan. The provincial government welcomed their surrender, with Minister Zahoor Buledi urging other misguided individuals to return to the right path.

Additionally, Jangez Khan, a recent recruit of the militant group, also shared his regrets after being promised money and a motorcycle to fight against the Pakistani military. He, too, has decided to join the national mainstream and abandon the path of militancy.

The successful strategy of the state in engaging with and rehabilitating these militants is expected to encourage more youth from Balochistan to renounce violence and work towards a peaceful future.

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