Pakistani forces eliminate 145 militants in Balochistan following recent violent incidents.
In a significant escalation of violence, Pakistani security forces have launched a manhunt in Balochistan province following a series of coordinated assaults that resulted in considerable loss of life. The tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing turmoil in the region, which is marred by separatist tensions and socio-economic challenges. As local authorities respond with a robust security operation targeting separatist groups, the situation underscores the complexities of governance and stability in Pakistan’s most resource-rich yet economically disadvantaged province.
Pakistani security forces have reported the death of at least 145 fighters from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as part of a decisive manhunt initiated in response to recent coordinated gun and bomb attacks in the province, which resulted in nearly 50 fatalities. The assaults, which unfolded on Saturday across multiple locations in southwestern Balochistan, claimed the lives of 31 civilians, including five women, in addition to 17 members of the security forces.
In a press briefing, Sarfraz Bugti, the provincial chief minister, indicated that authorities had swiftly mobilized troops and police to counter the attacks. He described the number of insurgents killed as the highest in decades, while asserting that “Fitna al-Hindustan,” a designation used by the government for the BLA, was behind the violence. Bugti claimed that 145 attackers, some of whom were reportedly Afghan nationals, had been eliminated, and accused the group of attempting to take hostages but failing to reach the city center.
The military’s official casualty figures noted that 92 fighters were killed on Saturday alone, while the day prior saw 41 additional deaths among the insurgents. Bugti mentioned that intelligence reports had prompted pre-emptive operations before the attacks commenced. He also expressed concerns regarding the BLA’s operational bases within Afghanistan, an assertion that has been staunchly denied by officials in New Delhi and Kabul, who labeled it as an attempt by Pakistan to divert attention from its domestic challenges.
Balochistan, home to a diverse population and abundant natural resources, has faced perpetual violence stemming from a decades-long struggle for greater autonomy and a more equitable distribution of its resources by ethnic Baloch groups. The BLA has been particularly active in targeting security forces and foreign nationals, including workers from China, who are involved in a variety of developmental initiatives in the province.
The latest wave of violence caused simultaneous strikes across districts like Quetta, Gwadar, Mastung, and Noshki, where armed men targeted security installations and attempted suicide bombings. Witnesses recounted the harrowing experiences of being caught in the crossfire, detailing how attackers disguised themselves as civilians before launching their assaults.
Following the attacks, Quetta’s streets bore signs of chaos, with burnt vehicles and widespread security measures being implemented to ensure public safety. The provincial government has instituted strict restrictions on public gatherings and demonstrations while discouraging the use of face coverings to enhance security.
In a wider context, the U.S. condemned the violence, with statements from diplomats affirming solidarity with Pakistan against acts of terrorism. While the BLA is designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S., the complexity of Balochistan’s dynamics continues to complicate efforts toward lasting peace and improved socio-economic conditions.
The ongoing conflict not only highlights the resilience of separatist movements in the region but also demonstrates the crucial need for constructive dialogue and inclusive governance to address the underlying grievances of the Baloch people.
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