Pakistani forces neutralize 145 militants in Balochistan following recent attacks

Pakistani Security Forces Launch Manhunt After Coordinated Attacks in Balochistan Province

A series of coordinated gun and bomb attacks occurred across southwestern Balochistan province on Saturday, resulting in nearly 50 deaths. The attacks, claimed by the banned separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), targeted multiple locations, including security installations, hospitals, schools, banks, and markets.

According to reports, at least 145 BLA fighters were killed during the manhunt launched by Pakistani security forces. This number is the highest in decades, according to provincial Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti.

The attacks began early on Saturday and continued throughout the day, leaving 31 civilians dead, including five women. Seventeen security personnel also lost their lives. The assault prompted authorities to impose months-long security restrictions on the province, banning public gatherings, demonstrations, and limiting traffic movement.

The measures also banned the use of face coverings that conceal the identification of individuals in public places. Bugti stated that troops and police officers responded swiftly to the attacks, killing 145 members of “Fitna al-Hindustan,” a phrase used by the government to refer to the BLA.

India has denied allegations made by Pakistan that it backs the BLA. A spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs said Islamabad should address the “longstanding demands of its people in the region” instead of making baseless claims.

The attacks are part of decades-long violence and separatist attacks by ethnic Baloch seeking greater autonomy and a larger share of the area’s natural resources. The BLA regularly targets Pakistani security forces and has attacked civilians, including Chinese nationals, who are among thousands working on various projects in the province.

Security forces have tightened patrols and restricted movement following the attacks, with residents expressing fear of further violence.

Source: Al Jazeera