BLA Attack in Balochistan: 14 Pakistani Soldiers Killed

Fresh bloodshed erupted in Pakistan’s Balochistan province as two separate attacks carried out by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed the lives of 14 Pakistani military personnel. These incidents highlight the escalating insurgency and volatile conditions in the region.

In the first attack, the BLA’s Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) targeted a military convoy near Shorkand in the Mach area of Bolan district. The squad used a remote-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) in the assault. The powerful blast destroyed the military vehicle, killing all 12 soldiers on board instantly, including Special Operations Commander Tariq Imran and Subedar Umar Farooq.

On the same day, a second attack occurred in the Kulag Tigran area of Kech district. BLA fighters detonated another remote-controlled IED against a Pakistan Army Bomb Disposal Squad conducting a clearance operation around 2:40 PM. Two soldiers were killed in this incident.

BLA spokesperson Jiand Baloch claimed responsibility for both attacks in an official statement. He alleged that the Pakistan Army was functioning as a mercenary force working to protect Chinese investments and other external interests. He warned that attacks by Baloch freedom fighters would intensify against this "occupying mercenary force."

Despite Balochistan being rich in natural resources, separatist groups have long alleged that local residents suffer from poverty, discrimination, and economic exploitation. They claim that the Pakistani government systematically suppresses their rights. Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities have accused Afghanistan of supporting groups like the BLA. The recent attacks have further deepened tensions in the already restive province.