Pak Army not involved in Balochistan operation: General Kayani

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, has denied reports of the military being behind aggressive operations in Balochistan.

General Kayani said the Baloch troops were in their barracks and not a single soldier was engaged in army operation in the province, the Daily Times reports.

General Kayani issued the statement during a passing-out parade of cadets at the Military College Sui (MCS) in Balochistan on the occasion of the National Defence Day of Pakistan.

Many prominent leaders attended the ceremony, including Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch.

General Kayani said that Pakistan's defence lies in the strong and prosperous Balochistan, which would guarantee the prosperity of the country.

He laid stress on the fact that Balochistan's natural resources could be utilized for people's welfare and further reaffirmed that Pakistan Army was committed to extend all possible assistance to the provincial government to eradicate poverty and control lawlessness.

He said that the provision of latest trainings and equipments to the Balochistan police was one of the steps taken for strengthening the law enforcement agencies against terrorist outfits.

He further added that the completion of Kachi Canal and Gwadar-Rato Dero projects was vital for the development of the people of Balochistan.