At least 434 militants belonging to different banned separatist groups surrendered in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

The separatists who handed over their arms to authorise belong to Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Baloch Republican Army (BRA) and other groups alleged that they have carried out the attacks on security installations and officials in Balochistan.

Commander Southern Command Lieutenant General Amir Riaz said the separatists who wanted to return to the normal life they can after surrendering. He stated, “Anyone laying down their arms would be welcomed.”

Chief Minister of Balochistan Sanaullah Zehri said for many years foreign agencies had used innocent people in the region. The agencies were misleading and instigating them.

A commander of the banned BLA Sher Mohammad said “anti-Pakistan” elements deceived them. A senior provincial officer averred until now more than 1,500 militants have been surrendered.

Since 2004, Pakistan has been fighting the insurgency in Balochistan and hundreds of soldiers and militants killed in the fighting.

The CM said, “These militants had killed my own son and brother but I have forgiven them. The state of Pakistan also forgives them and I welcome them to be part of Balochistan’s CPEC project.”

The Chinese have assisted the CPEC project which connects Balochistan’s deep sea port Gwadar to China. This project has comparatively reduced the violence in the area.

Mr. Zehri added, “We will arrange employment for you. Nobody will be allowed to destroy peace in the province.”

On the other side, Pakistan said its border with Afghanistan and Iran in Balochistan are being used to instigate and train people to conduct unlawful activities in the nation.