Pakistan: Bombing targets security forces in Gwadar, March 5

Event

A suspected roadside bomb detonated near a security force vehicle traveling along a bridge in the vicinity of Gwadar on March 6. The blast resulted in an unspecified number of casualties and damage to the bridge. The location of the incident is reportedly the Coastal Highway bridge near Zero Point in the Nalant area. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attack.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the impacted locations over the coming hours as the authorities carry out investigations.

Context

Separatist groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), often carry out small-scale attacks on security forces, pro-government leaders, and workers in the area. Most attacks occur in rural areas. Separatists also often target development projects in Balochistan associated with the high-profile, Chinese-funded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Advice

Avoid the scene of the blast 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.