Wave of Violence in Balochistan: Gun and Bomb Attacks Leave Numerous Casualties

A series of gun and bomb attacks across Pakistan's south-western Balochistan province have resulted in the deaths of 31 civilians and 17 security personnel, according to the region's Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti. The violence reflects a troubling escalation in a province that has long experienced ethnic insurgency and unrest.

Security forces engaged in a 40-hour confrontation with assailants, reportedly killing at least 145 attackers during the conflict. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), the group claiming responsibility for the attacks, alleges that dozens of soldiers were also killed in their operations.

This escalation adds to the longstanding tensions involving the BLA, which claims that the local population has not benefitted from the region's rich natural resources. Pakistan's government has been struggling against the BLA since the insurgency began shortly after the country gained independence from British rule in 1948.

Pakistan's interior minister, Talal Chaudhry, detailed that the attacks, which took place in various cities including the provincial capital of Quetta, targeted civilian populations indiscriminately—striking schools, markets, and hospitals. Attackers often disguised as civilians, employing human shields during the violence.

In the aftermath of these attacks, certain regions faced restrictions including the jamming of mobile services and the suspension of train services. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended military efforts while reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to eradicate terrorism completely.

The BLA has described the operation, dubbed Herof or ‘black storm,’ as a coordinated assault on security forces, claiming to have dealt considerable casualties among them. However, these claims have not been independently verified and the government remains reluctant to comment comprehensively on the losses stipulated by the rebels.

The situation is compounded by accusations from Pakistan against India for allegedly supporting the BLA, a claim consistently denied by Delhi.

Despite being rich in resources, Balochistan continues to grapple with issues of enforced disappearances and regional disenfranchisement, with local advocates calling attention to these problems amid calls for independence by various factions.