Suicide attack in Islamabad thwarted, says Balochistan CM Bugti

QUETTA: Sarfraz Bugti on Monday said security and intelligence agencies had foiled a planned suicide attack in Islamabad after intercepting a young woman allegedly recruited and prepared for the mission by militants linked to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army.

Speaking at a press conference in Quetta, the chief minister said the woman, who was presented before the media alongside officials, had allegedly been assigned a target in the federal capital.

He said timely intelligence-based action prevented the attack from taking place.

Bugti accused militant organisations of exploiting and manipulating young women for violent activities, saying such groups were acting against Baloch traditions and values.

He said the government wanted girls to receive education and build successful futures, while extremist elements were instead pushing them towards militancy and suicide attacks.

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“The woman sitting with us today was allegedly being prepared for a suicide mission,” Bugti said, adding that authorities had ensured her safety and dignity after taking her into custody.

He further stated that she would be reunited with her family respectfully.

During the press conference, the student said she was currently enrolled in second-year studies and claimed she had been pressured and threatened by a cousin to work for the banned BLA.

She alleged that she had been psychologically manipulated and convinced to carry out a suicide attack.

The student further said law enforcement officials treated her respectfully following her arrest and provided her protection.

She added that she now wanted to continue her education and pursue a positive future, expressing hope of becoming either a doctor or a teacher.