Former Militant Arman Baloch Announces Disassociation from Militancy, Citing Coercion and Blackmail

Quetta: The process of militants associated with banned armed groups in Balochistan surrendering and returning to mainstream society is reportedly continuing. In a recent development, Arman Baloch, identified as a former militant linked to the banned Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), announced that he had severed all ties with the organization and appealed to the state and its institutions for forgiveness.

From Seeking Employment to Being Drawn into Militancy

In a video statement, Arman Baloch described how he allegedly became involved with militants while searching for employment in Iran.

According to his account, he traveled to Iran with a friend in search of work, where he was allegedly abducted by militants and taken to an undisclosed mountainous area.

He stated:

"In the mountains, I was introduced to a commander of the banned Baloch Liberation Front, Qamar Brohi, after which I was forcibly recruited into the militant ranks. I remained with the organization for six months, received guerrilla training, and participated in two separate attacks in the Tamp and Buleda areas."

Violence, Realization, and Attempt to Leave

Arman Baloch said that over time he realized he had been pushed onto a destructive and misguided path. However, when he expressed his desire to leave the organization and return home, he claimed that he was subjected to severe violence.

He said:

"I was subjected to severe torture to prevent me from leaving, but eventually I decided to abandon this path permanently. I will not participate in any illegal activity in the future and seek forgiveness from the state institutions."

Message to the Youth of Balochistan

Arman Baloch urged young people across Balochistan not to fall for what he described as false propaganda and deceptive promises by anti-state elements and the group referred to in the statement as "Fitna al-Hindustan."

He emphasized:

• Loyalty to the country: Young people should remain loyal to their country and community and live as responsible citizens.
• Rejecting militant propaganda: Security analysts say the return of individuals such as Arman Baloch to mainstream society demonstrates the growing rejection of militant narratives among sections of Balochistan's youth.

The account highlights the risks faced by young people who become vulnerable to militant recruitment and underscores the importance of providing legitimate employment opportunities, awareness, and pathways for reintegration into society.