Taleban head 'not in Balochistan'

Mullah Omar is still in Afghanistan, Balochi officials believe

The leader of the Taleban, Mullah Omar, is not in Pakistan's Balochistan province, a top official there says.

The comments by Balochistan Chief Minister Mohammad Aslam Raisani come amid reports the US might widen its drone attacks to the province.

Mr Raisani said he believed Mullah Omar was in Afghanistan.

Reports in the US media this week suggested the US might extend its attacks amid evidence militant leaders had shifted further south.

CIA visit

US officials have in the past suggested al-Qaeda and Taleban leaders may have sought refuge around the Balochistan capital, Quetta.

But Mr Raisani said: "A person who is making war against the Nato forces, he must be present in Afghanistan, in Kandahar or somewhere.

"There is no justification for drone attacks in Quetta or other parts of Balochistan."

The US has increased its drone attacks in North West Frontier Province and the tribal areas close to the Afghan border.

The Pakistani government has always officially opposed them, saying they are a violation of sovereignty and breed resentment.

However, Pakistan is seen as a key ally in the US-led "war on terror" and CIA Director Leon Panetta was thought to be in Pakistan for security and intelligence briefings.

Mr Raisani said: "If the CIA has any evidence of [Mullah Omar's presence] they should tell us and we'll get him and send him [to the CIA]."

He said there had to be a distinction drawn between Taleban militants and religious students "who are here studying peacefully".

He added: "Balochis are united and they will oppose and resist if drone attacks are carried out."

Hundreds have died in the US drone attacks.