ISLAMABAD: The Balochistan government has announced rewards ranging from Rs1 million to Rs1.5 million for information about nine wanted women accused of involvement in activities threatening peace in Pakistan's southwestern province.

According to the provincial government, the women had also influenced others in activities aimed at spreading unrest.

The government said the identities of people providing information about the wanted women would be kept confidential.

The wanted women included Hanifan Bibi, Ayesha, Ruqayya, Hafsa, Zahra, Amina Bani, Zarmin and Azizaan, according to the provincial government.

The government’s statement, however, lists eight names, while it refers to nine wanted women.

The government said a reward of Rs1 million was set for eight of the wanted women, while a reward of Rs1.5 million was announced for Azizaan.

Information about the wanted women can be provided through designated contact numbers of the Balochistan government, it said.

The announcement comes amid what Pakistani authorities have described as an increased use of women by the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) in suicide attacks.

Earlier in January, the terrorist group used at least five female suicide bombers in attacks targeting government infrastructure and security forces, according to Pakistani authorities. The attempts were thwarted by security forces.

Authorities have repeatedly said terrorist elements in Balochistan seek to spread fear, disrupt economic activity and undermine development efforts in the province.

Balochistan security

Balochistan offers rewards for information on nine wanted women