Balochistan Apex Committee vows crackdown on crime, smuggling and poppy cultivation

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti on Thursday presided over the 20th meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee, which reviewed the province’s security situation, ongoing development projects and key public issues. The high-level session was attended by senior civil and military officials, including Balochistan Corps Commander Lt. Gen. Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan.

The meeting took detailed stock of law and order, progress on earlier decisions and measures to ensure socio-economic stability in the province. It ratified the implementation status of the previous committee’s resolutions and adopted several new decisions aimed at tightening law enforcement and improving governance.

CM Bugti directed intensified action against extortionists, gold smugglers, hawala and hundi operators, and other elements involved in white-collar crimes. Expressing dissatisfaction over the performance of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Balochistan, the committee ordered the agency to take “effective and result-oriented action” against financial crimes and money laundering networks.

The Apex Committee also decided to ban anti-state and hate-based publications, declaring that dissemination of such material was unacceptable. “No one will be allowed to spread divisive or anti-state narratives,” the Chief Minister stated.

In a move aimed at strengthening rural healthcare, the committee decided that doctors completing MBBS will be required to serve in their home districts for at least three years. Chief Minister Bugti emphasized that this policy would help ensure equitable medical services across remote areas of the province.

The meeting decided to launch a strict crackdown on poppy cultivation and related transactions, directing that individuals involved be placed in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act. “Those profiting from narcotics cultivation and trade will be dealt with under the law,” the Chief Minister warned.

Reviewing development progress, the committee expressed satisfaction over projects completed under the Balochistan Special Development Initiatives (BSDI) and instructed authorities to expedite work on ongoing schemes. “Basic facilities are being provided to the people under BSDI, and we will ensure all projects are completed on time,” Bugti said.

The Chief Minister also took notice of low gas pressure in Quetta, directing the General Manager of Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) to immediately resolve public complaints. “People are facing difficulties due to low gas pressure, and this issue must be fixed without delay,” he added.

Concluding the meeting, Chief Minister Bugti noted that “measures to restore peace in Balochistan are yielding positive results” and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect citizens, promote development, and curb activities detrimental to national stability.