The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks against the Pakistani Army and security forces in Balochistan. In a statement issued on Monday, the group said its fighters carried out 22 attacks across the province over the past eight days, killing 26 Pakistani security personnel.
The BLA is one of the main armed groups operating in Balochistan. It has been fighting the Pakistani government and military for years and has repeatedly targeted security forces, infrastructure and economic projects.
What happened in the latest BLA attacks?
According to the BLA, 20 Pakistani security personnel were killed in IED attacks in Kalat and Surab. The group also claimed attacks on police and security positions in Chagai, Kharan and Panjgur.
The BLA said its fighters also carried out attacks in Nushki, Turbat and Quetta. It claimed responsibility for attacks on commercial vehicles and railway tracks and said nine vehicles being used for the Pakistani Army were destroyed during the recent operations.
The group said roads, railway infrastructure, security installations and economic projects were also targeted as part of its eight-day campaign.
Why has the BLA stepped up attacks?
The BLA has described the latest attacks as retaliation for a recent Pakistani Air Force strike in the Surab area. Local organisations have claimed that 27 civilians were killed or injured in the airstrike.
The separatist group has since increased attacks in different parts of Balochistan, putting further pressure on Pakistan’s military and government.
The latest violence comes days after gunmen targeted the vehicle of Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau. Six people, including the minister’s security personnel, were injured in the attack.
Why is Balochistan a major challenge for Pakistan?
Balochistan has a long history of violence and political unrest. It is Pakistan’s largest province by area but has faced instability. Several armed groups have accused the Pakistani government of ignoring demands related to greater political rights, resources and autonomy. Islamabad has rejected separatist demands, while military operations and militant attacks have continued to fuel tensions in the province.
