Quetta, 20 December, 2023 (GNP): In a significant development on Wednesday, Sarfraz Ahmed Bungulzai, a prominent commander of the banned militant group Baloch National Army (BNA), announced his surrender alongside 70 associates in Quetta.
This announcement was made in a press conference attended by provincial Information Minister Jan Achakzai, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts towards peace and stability in Balochistan.
Bungulzai, addressing the media, revealed a profound change of heart regarding his armed struggle, acknowledging that the sacrifices of Baloch lives were being manipulated for vested interests.
He shed light on foreign involvement, notably India, in orchestrating disruptive agendas within the region, prompting his decision to lead his associates into joining the national mainstream.
Reflecting on past events, Bungulzai highlighted the tragic loss of innocent Baloch lives due to conflicts instigated by these foreign elements.
Also Read: World Bank approves $350M to Pakistan
He emphasized that the pursuit of foreign agendas had resulted in the senseless loss of Baloch lives, urging the youth to abandon violence and embrace education over arms.
Expressing gratitude for the state’s acceptance, Bungulzai commended the government’s welcome and urged for a supportive pathway for others willing to integrate into the national fold.
Earlier this year, the arrest of Gulzar Imam alias Shambay, the alleged founder of BNA, had laid the groundwork for such reintegration efforts.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar hailed the surrender as a significant stride towards peace and stability in Balochistan.
Peace and stability is our top priority. The surrender of Sarfraz Bungulzai alias Mureed Baloch (the head of BNA) alongwith his companions / families is a very welcome development for Pakistan & Balochistan. This comes at the heels of anotheer major re-integration in which Gulzar… pic.twitter.com/vw0YQMVGn4
— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) December 20, 2023
Praising the efforts of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, including the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), PM Kakar acknowledged their pivotal role in orchestrating this critical operation aimed at peace-building.
The development was also welcomed by PML-N’s Shehbaz Sharif, who recognized the surrender as a positive step towards peace in Balochistan.
The surrender of Sarfraz Bungulzai, the head of BNA, along with his companions is a welcome news for the people of Balochistan. It augurs well for peace in the province. Our law enforcement and intelligence agencies, especially the ISI, are doing a commendable job in the service…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) December 20, 2023
This surrender holds significance regarding the efforts towards peace and national integration in Balochistan.
