Pakistan's forces 'physically handicapped' in Balochistan: Khawaja Asif

Islamabad: Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said that security forces deployed in Balochistan were “physically handicapped" due to the restive province’s vast geography, as the government continues large-scale “counter-terror" operations amid a sharp spike in attacks, PTI reported.

Addressing the National Assembly, Asif said, “Balochistan constitutes over 40 per cent of Pakistan geographically… To control it is much more difficult than a populated city, and it needs the deployment of massive forces. Our troops are deployed there and are in action against them (terrorists), but they are physically handicapped by guarding and patrolling such a big area."

His remarks came after security forces killed 177 militants, following coordinated attacks at 12 locations across the province. Asif also alleged a nexus between criminals and militants, claiming that criminal gangs were operating under the banner of the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) to protect smugglers.

"In Balochistan, tribal elders, the bureaucracy, and those running separatist movements have formed a nexus," Asif said. Reiterating the government’s stance, he said Pakistan would not allow any attempt to “rationalize violence".

Bordering Iran and Afghanistan, Balochistan is home to a long-running violent insurgency. Baloch insurgent groups have previously carried out several attacks targeting the $60 billion CPEC projects.