Security Forces Arrest Professor Linked to BLA, Foil Major Terror Plot in Balochistan

Quetta, Monday — Chief Minister of Balochistan, Sarfraz Bugti, announced that Pakistani security forces arrested Professor Dr. Usman Qazi, a lecturer accused of working with the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). According to the Chief Minister, the arrest helped foil a major terror plot planned for August 14.

During a press conference in Quetta, Bugti said several suicide bombers had been prepared to target innocent citizens with the professor’s support, but security forces intervened in time. He praised the efforts of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), police, and other agencies for preventing a large-scale tragedy.

Bugti revealed that this was the first time an official from the Majeed Brigade had been captured alive. “He is a lecturer in Pakistan Studies. Imagine how many students he might have influenced,” Bugti remarked. He further alleged that Qazi provided shelter and medical help to militants at his residence.

A recorded statement from the suspect was also played during the briefing. In it, Qazi confirmed he completed his Master’s degree from Quaid-e-Azam University and a PhD from the University of Peshawar, later becoming a Grade-18 lecturer. He also mentioned that his wife works for the government.

Qazi admitted that in 2020, during a visit to Quaid-e-Azam University, he met individuals connected to an “organization.” While two of them were later killed, others introduced him to extremist commander Bashirzai. He claimed most of the communication happened through the Telegram app. After moving to Quetta, he said he facilitated three terrorist operations on instructions from the group.

Authorities said further investigations are ongoing to uncover more links and prevent future threats.