Pakistan’s security forces have killed 177 militants linked to the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in a large-scale counter-terrorism operation in the southwestern province of Balochistan, officials said. The offensive, which took place over the past three days, followed a wave of coordinated attacks by militants that struck multiple districts and targeted police stations, government facilities, and security posts across the province.
Authorities reported that militants carried out simultaneous assaults in cities including Quetta, Gwadar, Dalbandin, Nushki and Mastung, killing at least 31 civilians and 17 security personnel during the weekend violence. The BLA, designated a terrorist organisation by the Pakistani government, claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying it had launched a coordinated campaign against security forces in several locations.
In response, Pakistan’s military, police and intelligence agencies conducted a series of raids and clearance operations across Balochistan. Officials said these operations resulted in at least 177 militants being killed, including 22 in overnight actions on Monday. State media described the operations as necessary to restore order following the unprecedented wave of insurgent violence.
Government authorities stated that stability was gradually returning to most parts of the province, but security concerns remained elevated. Train services connecting Balochistan with other regions of Pakistan continued to be suspended due to the ongoing threat environment, and mobile internet services remained restricted in several areas.
Pakistan’s interior minister and provincial officials have accused foreign elements of supporting the separatist militants, a claim denied by neighbouring countries. The BLA has long pursued an insurgency in the resource-rich but restive province, often targeting security forces and infrastructure.