QUETTA: The case of Rahima Bibi has exposed an organized network involved in terrorist recruitment and cross-border facilitation, according to officials during a press briefing in Quetta on April 18, 2026.
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In her confessional statement, Rahima Bibi, wife of Manzoor Ahmed from Dalbandin, revealed that her husband facilitated a female suicide bomber associated with the Balochistan Liberation Front. The attacker, identified as Zarina Rafiq, later carried out an assault on a Frontier Corps camp in November 2025.
The statement disclosed that suspicious activities and extremist contacts were taking place within their home, indicating that such networks have penetrated domestic environments and are exploiting family structures for operational purposes.
Rahima Bibi further stated that Zarina Rafiq stayed at their residence before being transported to Afghanistan, where she reportedly received training prior to executing the attack in Pakistan. This has reinforced concerns about cross-border support for militant activities.
Officials also revealed that Rahima’s mobile phone was used by her husband to communicate with extremist elements, highlighting how personal identities are misused to conceal operational links.
Security assessments indicate a growing trend of militant groups targeting women through coercion and psychological manipulation. Analysts say groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army and BLF are adopting structured recruitment strategies, particularly focusing on vulnerable individuals.
Authorities noted that extremist networks operate through coordinated systems involving recruiters, facilitators, trainers, and handlers, often supported by cross-border infrastructure. These networks are believed to maintain links with groups such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.
Former caretaker prime minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar had earlier warned that militant organizations are employing a dual strategy combining violent operations with narrative campaigns to influence public perception.
Balochistan Home Department spokesperson Babar Yousafzai said hostile elements are exploiting social vulnerabilities, particularly involving women, to advance their objectives and destabilize society.
Officials emphasized that such actions contradict cultural and ethical values, adding that intelligence-based operations, forensic investigations, and legal proceedings are underway to dismantle these networks and prevent further incidents.
