Quetta: Pakistani security forces have killed at least 67 militants in a series of robust counter-operations following well-coordinated attacks across multiple locations in the restive southwestern province of Balochistan, according to media sources citing security officials. The clashes, which unfolded on Saturday, underscore the heightened insurgent activity and persistent security challenges in the region.
Authorities reported that the deadly assaults targeted several urban and strategic areas, including the provincial capital Quetta and the port city of Gwadar, prompting swift responses from the army, counterterrorism units, and police forces. According to officials who spoke on condition of anonymity, at least 10 members of police and security agencies lost their lives defending against the offensives, while 11 civilians were also killed. In addition, 24 security personnel were injured during the intense clashes.
The banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a long-active separatist group in Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating it had launched them simultaneously at various sites across the province. The group also claimed it inflicted significant casualties on security forces, although these figures could not be independently verified.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the violence, praising the “brave and timely action” of Pakistan’s security forces in repelling the coordinated attacks and eliminating dozens of militants responsible for the bloodshed. Medical and civil authorities in the affected districts declared emergencies at local hospitals to handle the surge of casualties and provide urgent care to the wounded.
The militant attacks come on the heels of separate operations earlier in the week, during which the military had reported killing 41 militants in Balochistan’s rugged terrain. The province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, has long been a battleground for separatist and insurgent movements seeking greater autonomy, fueled by economic marginalization and ethnic grievances.
This latest surge in violence marks one of the most significant coordinated militant offensives in recent memory, drawing attention to Balochistan’s ongoing insecurity. Security forces continue to conduct clearance operations across the province, pursuing remaining militant elements and striving to restore calm to the affected localities.
The human toll and scale of the militant losses are expected to reignite discussions about Pakistan’s counter-insurgency strategy, the resilience of separatist networks, and efforts to address the deep-rooted issues that continue to fuel unrest in Balochistan.