Balochistan sees unrest: 200 Pakistani soldiers killed, female suicide bomber targets ISI HQ

Islamabad (The Uttam Hindu): The situation in Pakistan's Balochistan province has descended into civil war, turning the region into a graveyard for the Pakistani army. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed that its "Operation Heroof Phase 2.0" has been ongoing for more than 40 hours. The insurgent group claims that its attacks have killed more than 200 soldiers of the Pakistani Army, police, and Frontier Corps and that it has captured several areas.

BLA claims army expelled from several areas

Balochistan Liberation Army spokesman Jiand Baloch issued a statement saying that his fighters have completed their operations in several key areas, including Kharan, Mastung, Tump, and Pasni. The group claims to have pushed back Pakistani army and security forces from parts of Quetta and Noshki. According to the BLA, more than 200 Pakistani security personnel were killed in the attack, and at least 17 were captured alive. However, these figures are preliminary estimates and have not yet been independently confirmed.

The 'human face' was shown by releasing the officers

Amid this bloody conflict, the BLA has also cited its "humanitarian behavior." The organization stated that it had detained Noshki Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Hussain Hazara and Assistant Commissioner Maria Shamu, but later released them safely. The BLA described this as a "humanitarian step" and stated that it does not consider the local administration and police as enemies unless they actively oppose its fighters. It also warned that officials who assist the "occupation forces" will not be spared.

Female suicide bomber commits suicide, BLA accepts its loss

The BLA has acknowledged its losses in this fierce battle. According to the organization, 18 of its fighters were killed during the operation. These included 11 'fidayeen' (suicide bombers) from the Majeed Brigade, four from the Fateh Squad, and three from the STOS unit. Significantly, female attackers were also involved in these attacks. The BLA stated that suicide bomber Asifa Mengal sacrificed her life while targeting the ISI headquarters in Noshki. Asifa had joined the Majeed Brigade in 2023.

Government counterattack – 145 terrorists killed

Meanwhile, the Pakistani government has presented figures of its own successes, contradicting the BLA's claims of heavy losses. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said on Sunday that security forces had killed at least 145 militants in counter-terrorism operations over the past 40 hours. He acknowledged the loss of 17 security personnel. Tensions are currently high across the region.