Violence escalated in January in Zehri, a traditionally peaceful area of Balochistan’s Khuzdar district, when terrorists from the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) attacked banks, looted shops, and engaged in extortion against residents. In response to urgent appeals from the area’s inhabitants, Pakistan’s security forces initiated a precise, intelligence-based operation to eliminate these threats and restore protection.

Responding to the local population’s demand for the eradication of terrorists from the area, Pakistan’s security forces launched limited, intelligence-based actions in Zehri. These operations were specifically designed to target the terrorist elements responsible for extortion, sabotage, and violence against citizens. Security forces’ actions were meticulously planned to ensure the protection of communities and the restoration of peace in the area.

The protection of civilians remained the foremost priority. The security forces’ operation was not directed against citizens, nor was any population forcibly evacuated. Security personnel acted strictly within the bounds of national law, ensuring that normal life, businesses, and educational institutions continued without disruption. Civilian protection was the central focus of all activities.

While some groups attempted to spread misinformation through fake images and misleading claims, local verification confirmed that the operation was strictly against terrorists and aimed at securing citizens and public property. Propaganda claims of a large-scale operation targeting civilians were proven to be exaggerated and baseless. No hospital records or medical evidence corroborated widespread damage, and alleged images circulating online were proven to be fake. This unfounded propaganda was part of a broader campaign intended to create distrust and division.

Peace and normalcy have been restored in Zehri. Today, Zehri’s streets are open, markets are bustling, and children have returned to school without fear. Local communities acknowledge this transformation and the role of the security forces in restoring peace.

The change in Zehri reflects cooperation between the public and the state. As residents placed their trust, security forces responded with protection and support, collectively creating an environment where opportunities can flourish instead of fear.

The Government of Balochistan continues to invest through a development package in education, healthcare, roads, and jobs. Every new school, clinic, and business strengthens peace more than any weapon. The youth of Zehri are now holding books, focused on building a better tomorrow.

Representatives from various sectors of Tehsil Zehri shared their thoughts on the situation, clearly indicating that the local people value peace and consider the state’s efforts as a guarantee of their prosperity.

Local Farmer, Inayatullah Zehri stated that agriculture is the basis of their livelihood, but the precarious peace situation had made their crops and fields unsafe. He told KhabarKada that the Pakistan Army’s operations have cleared the area, giving them a new hope, and they can now work in their fields without fear. He requested the government to increase agricultural assistance and allow the transportation of cotton to the market to avoid losses.

School Teacher, Rehana Bibi expressed that children’s education was severely affected by armed conflicts, with schools remaining closed and children living under a shadow of fear. She said that thanks to the security forces, peace is being restored, and schools are reopening. Rehana mentioned to Khabarkada that visits by the Corps Commander and Commissioner sahib reassured them that the state stands with them. She urged the government to provide more facilities in educational institutions, such as libraries and computer labs, so their children can contribute to Balochistan’s development.

President of the Khuzdar PPP, Mir Abdul Rehman Zehri, said that the people of Balochistan want peace. He told KhabarKada that normalcy is quickly returning, and the administration should completely open the linked Main Road from the National Highway. He mentioned ongoing discussions with district officials to improve the entire district’s situation according to the public’s wishes. Abdul Rehman Zehri said: “Further measures are needed; the opening hours of the market should be increased, and link roads from the main highway should be kept open all day to remove obstacles to trade. We also rely on remittances from the Gulf countries, and peace is what stabilises our livelihoods. These efforts by the state are commendable.”

Retired Civil Officer, Rasool Bakhsh stated that government jobs are the backbone of the local economy, but instability had affected them. He said the security forces launched successful operations in response to public demand. He praised the complete restoration of trust following the visits by the Corps Commander and Commissioner, which completely decimated the false propaganda machinery. He urged for more health and infrastructure projects to be brought in for the area’s development while talking to Khabar Kada.

The attempts to exploit the unrest through propaganda have failed. Communities no longer respond to divisive narratives; they are united by the desire for normalcy and development. Misinformation has been replaced by evidence of tranquility, development, and unity.

The successful operations by the Pakistan Army and security forces in Tehsil Zehri have laid a strong foundation for lasting peace in the area. This success is a shining example of the state of Pakistan’s people-friendly policies, where the state prioritized the wishes of the local people by conducting targeted operations. High officials like the Corps Commander Southern Command and the Commissioner Kalat Division personally visited the area to restore confidence. These efforts by the state are a guarantee of stability in the tribal areas of Balochistan, promoting sectors like agriculture, trade, and education. Immediate actions demonstrate that the state of Pakistan considers the welfare of every citizen its duty, which is the most beautiful result of the restoration of peace.

Zehri’s journey from uncertainty to peace stands as a symbol of resilience. The people here have chosen the promise of hope. Zehri’s success is measured not by the battles fought, but by the hearts restored by the return of safety, learning and everyday life.