The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group seeking independence for Balochistan, has claimed responsibility for two deadly attacks that killed 14 Pakistani Army personnel in the restive province on Tuesday, May 6. The assaults, which took place in Bolan and Kech districts, have intensified concerns about security in the region amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.
In the first attack, the BLA’s Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) executed a remote-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) attack on a military convoy in the Shorkand area of Mach, Bolan. The blast destroyed the vehicle, killing all 12 soldiers on board, including Special Operations Commander Tariq Imran and Subedar Umar Farooq. The second attack targeted a Bomb Disposal Squad in the Kulag Tigran area of Kech, where a remote-controlled IED detonated at approximately 2:40 PM during a clearance mission, killing two personnel.
Jeeyand Baloch, the BLA spokesperson, described the attacks as part of their ongoing resistance against the “mercenary” Pakistani military, which they accuse of exploiting Balochistan’s resources and serving foreign interests, particularly Chinese investments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “The attacks on this occupying army by the freedom fighters of Baloch land will continue with greater intensity,” the BLA statement read, rejecting claims that the group operates as a foreign proxy.
Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the attacks, alleging that the BLA acted as an “Indian proxy” without providing evidence. Local officials reported that security forces have launched sanitization operations to eliminate any remaining threats in the area. The attacks come amid heightened regional tensions following India’s “Operation Sindoor,” which neutralized Pakistani missile strikes and targeted terrorist facilities, including those linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attacks, vowing that “those who disrupt Balochistan’s peace will face justice.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed the sentiment, promising a robust response to the insurgency. The BLA’s actions highlight long-standing grievances in Balochistan, where separatists accuse the central government of political marginalization, human rights abuses, and economic exploitation of the province’s vast mineral wealth.
The attacks have drawn attention on social media, with X users like @SouleFacts and @FollowAkshay1 noting the BLA’s precision and the pressure mounting on Pakistan’s military. However, analysts warn that such incidents could further destabilize the region, especially as Pakistan grapples with internal security challenges and external tensions with India.
