Chakrani Tribe Militants Pledge Allegiance to Pakistan; Five terrorists killed in Dera Bugti IBO, says ISPR
RAWALPINDI/DERA BUGTI:
Five terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Bugti district of Balochistan, the army said in a statement on Saturday. The development came on a day when more than 100 former militants, including a top commander of the banned Baloch Republican Army (BRA), voluntarily surrendered in what is being described as a major development for security and reconciliation efforts in the volatile province.
Acting on an intelligence tip-off about the presence of terrorists belonging to the “Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan”, security forces carried out an operation in Dera Bugti on December 5, the army’s media wing, the ISPR, said in the statement. “The forces indeed attacked the terrorists’ location and after an intense exchange of fire, five Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” he added.
The military uses the term Fitna al-Hindustan for Baloch separatist terrorist groups that officials say receive logistical and material support from India’s intelligence agency, RAW, under the “Doval Doctrine,” which employs hybrid warfare (including support for terrorist groups) to destabilize Pakistan.
“Arms, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the slain terrorists were “actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area.” The military added that a clearing operation was underway to purge the area of any terrorists left there.
“A relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ vision by security forces and police agencies of Pakistan will continue in full swing to eliminate the menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism,” the ISPR added, referring to the strategy approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
In a related development, Wadera Noor Ali Chakrani, commander of the Brahumdagh Bugti faction of the BRA, along with over 100 former militants, surrendered their weapons during a ceremony in Sui, Dera Bugti. The group raised the national flag and publicly pledged their commitment to a peaceful life. The event was attended by prominent local figures, including Mir Aftab Ahmed Bugti, who welcomed the decision and encouraged his reintegration into society.
On the occasion, Bugti urged other militants still hiding in the surrounding mountainous areas to abandon violence and return to the fold of the State. “A lasting peace requires collective responsibility and mutual understanding between communities and authorities,” he added.
Sui Town President Izzatullah Aman Bugti appreciated the Baloch Chief Minister’s approach and said a combination of strong security operations and community outreach has helped rebuild trust among the Baloch people. “These developments reflect the positive results of combining effective law enforcement measures with public-focused policies,” he said, referring to the surrender of former militants.
“These changes show that strong action, when backed by inclusive initiatives, can reshape the security environment,” Aman Bugti said, adding that cooperation between residents and institutions is vital for long-term progress in Balochistan.
Authorities say the addition of members of the Chakrani tribe – one of the main tribes in Dera Bugti – deals both an operational and psychological blow to the BRA, likely weakening the group’s ability to recruit, extort and carry out violent activities in the volatile province.
Given the strategic importance of Dera Bugti as the historic heart of Pakistan’s natural gas supply, improved security in the district is also described as a boost to energy stability and economic resilience.
The collective return of former militants is considered a public rejection of the narrative based on violence promoted by anti-state elements. Officials say the move reflects growing trust between local communities and the state, and recognition that dignity and long-term development lie in political engagement rather than armed conflict.
Security observers believe the perceptual environment in Dera Bugti has changed in recent years, driven by the expansion of development initiatives and disillusionment with foreign-backed militant agendas.
The reintegration of over 100 former militants is also being interpreted as a message to “hostile agencies”, particularly RAW, accused of exploiting Baloch youth for geopolitical objectives. Officials say the return of these militants indicates that external attempts to destabilize Balochistan are increasingly failing as local communities refuse to be used as proxies.
Previously, prominent militant commanders such as Sarfraz Bangulzai of the United Baloch Army and Gulzar Imam Shambay, founder of the Baloch Nationalist Army, had also surrendered, publicly alleging foreign support for the armed groups. Officials say these developments have helped weaken the credibility of separatist groups and opened avenues for dialogue.
Government representatives reiterated the policy of encouraging reconciliation with those who were deceived or forced into militancy but who are willing to peacefully reintegrate.
According to officials, the state distinguishes between reconcilable militants and hardened militants backed by foreign actors. “Those who return will find dignity; those who persist in violence will isolate themselves,” one official said.
Local authorities and leaders emphasized the need for a structured reintegration package for the Chakrani tribe, including jobs, education, healthcare, vocational training, women’s initiatives, and support for small businesses and agriculture. These measures, they say, are essential to ensure the long-term success of peace efforts.
Officials urged those still involved in armed activities to reconsider, saying their families and communities want peace and stability. “The State is willing to welcome back those who renounce violence and return with honor,” added an official.
