Terrorism should be fought till its end
Security forces which are conducting Operation Raddul Fasad, a countrywide intelligence based operation against the terrorists, are in the cross hairs of the IS, JuA and TTP as these networks have suffered badly at their hands. Balochistan, which shares a border with Afghanistan, has faced a number of security challenges in recent months. Security personnel, both civilian and military, have been targeted in the province in roadside explosions. Quetta has special significance for elements acting on behalf of certain foreign powers opposed to CPEC. In the latest attack in Quetta at least 15 people died including 8 army men. A suicide bomber rammed his explosives laden bicycle into the military truck. In an earlier attack in June, 13 people ─ including seven policeman ─ lost their lives.
The terrorists are being forced out of their remaining hideouts. The latest operation is being conducted in Rajgal valley along the Pak-Afghan border in Khyber Agency. Reacting like an injured beast the terrorists are attacking ferociously wherever they find an opportunity created by laxity in vigilance. According to a newspaper report around two weeks back a threat alert had been issued stating that an explosives-laden vehicle had entered Quetta and a blast could occur on a crowded place or a market. If true, there was negligence somewhere which benefited the terrorists. Unlike Ch Nisar, the new interior minister reached Quetta within hours of the attack. What his office should have done however is to follow up with the Balochistan security authorities about the intelligence report.
The attack which came two days before August 14 is a part of psy-war where the battlefield is people’s mind. As COAS Bajwa put it the aim was to “mar Independence Day festivity” in the city. As the COAS put it, Pakistani nation would celebrate Independence Day to honour the sacrifices of all the martyrs who died for a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan. There is a need to meet the challenge posed by the terrorists with synergy released by the joint efforts of all the state institutions, civilian as well as military.