Apex Committee Takes Decisive Action Against Smuggling in Balochistan
In a significant move, the Balochistan Apex Committee has announced strict and immediate action against smuggling, terrorism, and corruption across the province.
The decision came during the 19th meeting of the Apex Committee, held in Quetta on Tuesday, under the chairmanship of Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti. The meeting was attended by Corps Commander Balochistan, Lieutenant General Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan, along with senior military and civil officials.
The committee held in-depth discussions on the province’s security landscape, law and order, and public interest matters. A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to intensify the ongoing anti-smuggling campaign. The committee directed authorities to initiate legal proceedings against transport companies and drivers found involved in smuggling operations.
Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti emphasized that no highway will be allowed to be blocked under the pretext of protests. He reaffirmed the state’s responsibility to protect citizens’ rights, particularly when it concerns life-saving emergencies.
The Apex Committee also instructed that the Anti-Terrorism Act’s rules and regulations be finalized without delay. Additionally, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) was ordered to take decisive action against individuals involved in illegal remittance operations.
In a broader effort to maintain internal stability, the committee resolved to act firmly against social media accounts involved in anti-state propaganda. It also highlighted the need to eliminate extortion and committed to creating a business-friendly environment for mine owners.
Further decisions included strengthening the crackdown on illegal immigrants, enhancing counter-terrorism response mechanisms, and digitalizing the Fourth Schedule monitoring system.
Infrastructure development was another key agenda item. The committee reviewed several major projects, including the expansion of the Bolan Route National Highway and the construction of the Dera Murad Jamali Bypass—both of which will now be executed by the provincial government. The National Highway Authority (NHA) has been instructed to complete Quetta’s Western Bypass by December 25.
In a move to enhance public safety, LHS petroleum tankers have been banned from entering residential areas. FC security will be deployed in Dera Bugti for the Pit Feeder Canal project, and work on the Chaman Master Plan will be expedited.
The committee also agreed to reactivate District Development Committees and to celebrate Balochistan’s 78th Independence Day with full enthusiasm.
CM Bugti reiterated that tough measures would be enforced against those engaged in smuggling, corruption, illegal remittances, and extortion. He stressed the importance of protecting youth from subversive influences and drug abuse.
He concluded by warning that if the NHA delays key infrastructure projects, the provincial government will take over their execution in the public interest. The Chief Minister affirmed that Balochistan is moving toward lasting peace and sustainable development through firm implementation of the Apex Committee’s decisions.
