Pakistan: Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) claims responsibility for Aug. 7 bomb attack targeting security forces in Gwadar

Event

Heightened security is likely in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, over the coming hours after a bomb attack targeted security forces on the city's Marine Drive late Aug. 7. The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) claimed responsibility for the assault, asserting that the attack left four security personnel dead and two others wounded; authorities did not immediately confirm the number of casualties in connection with the incident.

Localized transport disruptions are likely in the affected area through at least early Aug. 8.

Context

Separatist groups, including the BLF, often carry out small-scale attacks on security forces, pro-government leaders, and workers from other parts of Pakistan in Balochistan Province. Most attacks occur in rural areas. The BLF and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) also often target development projects in Balochistan associated with the high-profile, Chinese-funded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Additionally, BLA operatives have previously targeted Chinese interests in areas outside of Balochistan Province, most notably a December 2018 attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the attack until authorities give the all-clear. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the incident site; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the immediate area and any related disruptions. Heed local authorities' instructions.