QUETTA: The Balochistan National Party (BNP-M) chief Akhtar Mengal has taken control of the BLA’s Khuzdar faction’s organisational and financial affairs following Bashir Zeb’s exit, according to reports, marking a major shift in the militant group’s power structure.
The reported development signals a significant shift in the faction’s internal power dynamics, with Mengal reportedly taking charge of key organisational and financial matters in coordination with its new influential commander, Rahman Gul.
A secret meeting at Kot Mengal, attended by Mengal’s son Gurgain Mengal and BLA commander Zahoor Mengal, is also reported to have discussed the faction’s future direction, funding arrangements and strategy. The reported developments have raised serious questions about the intersection of political influence and terror networks in Balochistan.
According to the reports, Mengal has reached an understanding with Rahman Gul, described by the sources as an influential new commander of the faction, over several key matters.
Zahoor Mengal, who attended the meeting too, described as a close associate of Rahman Gul.
The discussions reportedly focused on the future of the Khuzdar faction, funding arrangements and its proposed strategy.
The claims also suggest a shift in the faction’s approach under Rahman Gul. Unlike Bashir Zeb, who was associated with direct attacks, Rahman Gul is alleged to favour creating internal instability, spreading rumours and fuelling political uncertainty rather than launching major attacks against security forces and civilians.
Sources quoted in the report claimed that Akhtar Mengal’s political influence and experience could make him a key figure in advancing this alleged strategy.
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Political observers cited in the account also suggested that the alleged arrangement could be aimed at weakening the provincial and federal governments and restoring Mengal’s political standing.
However, the allegations regarding Mengal’s involvement, the reported meeting and any financial or organisational links with the BLA have not been independently verified. No documentary evidence or official confirmation of the alleged developments has been provided.
