Bugti vows court martial of security officials involved in cross-border smuggling

Islamabad: In a press conference held in Islamabad on Monday, Caretaker Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti revealed that the army chief has issued stern warnings to security personnel involved in cross-border smuggling, warning them of possible court martial proceedings.

Flanked by Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, Bugti acknowledged the presence of security forces’ involvement in smuggling activities, stating, “If I say that border security forces weren’t involved in [smuggling], it won’t be right as the [smuggled] items are transported via trucks.”

Bugti further emphasized that those engaged in such illicit activities would not only face court-martial but also imprisonment, as per the directives of the army chief.

Speaking on Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against terrorism, Bugti mentioned that several apex committee meetings were underway to address the issue, promising forthcoming changes in the security landscape. He also revealed ongoing investigations into recent terror incidents, suggesting the involvement of external entities like RAW in previous Balochistan incidents.

Bugti affirmed the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to counter terrorism and called for unity within society, stating that recent attacks were not unexpected due to Pakistan’s decision to become a “hardened state” in response to terrorism. He emphasized that while terrorism was a complex battle, it was not an impossible one, and Pakistan was determined to combat it.

Regarding the security of upcoming elections, Bugti stressed the government’s responsibility and discussed ongoing meetings with the Election Commission of Pakistan to ensure robust security arrangements.

In response to questions about the imminent return of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Nawaz Sharif, Bugti termed it “encouraging” and clarified that his previous statement regarding Nawaz’s potential arrest upon return had been misinterpreted.

Nawaz Sharif, convicted in corruption cases, is expected to return to Pakistan on October 21 after four years of self-exile. Bugti acknowledged Nawaz Sharif’s past incarceration but reiterated the government’s commitment to treating all citizens in accordance with the law.

The statements made by Caretaker Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti shed light on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to maintain national security, combat terrorism, and ensure the rule of law in the country, while also addressing the anticipated return of a prominent political figure.