26 Aug 2024 | 05:52 AM UTC
Pakistan: Security operations reported across Balochistan Province as of Aug. 26 amid militant offensive
Militant attacks prompt security operations in parts of Balochistan Province, Pakistan, Aug. 26. Additional attacks, armed clashes possible.
Security operations are underway across Balochistan Province as of Aug. 26 following the launch of the "Operation Hereof" offensive by the separatist Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). BLA has reportedly gained control of several key highways, such as the Karachi-Quetta section of National Highway 8. At least six attacks have occurred since late Aug. 25, including explosions and gunfire targeting an army camp in the Bela city of Lasbela District, attacks on police stations across Gwadar District, and damage to the Pakistan-Iran railway track in Mastung. Authorities have refuted claims by BLA leaders that over 60 security personnel died in various overnight attacks. BLA has also warned residents to stay home as far as possible amid reported clashes and related security operations affecting several regions like Buleda, Mand, and Turbat areas of Kech District; Gwadar, Jiwani, Pasni, and Suntsar towns of Gwadar District, Lasbela and Bela areas of Lasbela District, as well as Kalat, Mastung, Nushki, Panjgur, and Sibi districts.
BLA has claimed control of several routes including main highways in Bolan and Koh-e-Sulaiman, Abdoi Highway in Tigran, Mand-Turbat Highway in Hotabad, Balgatar-Panjgur Highway, Gwadar-Jiwani Coastal Highway, Kalat-Karachi Highway, Mastung-Khad Kocha Highway, Nushki-Kharan Highway, Quetta-Taftan Highway, Sabi-Mathari Highway, and the Turbat-Hironak Highway. Attacks on toll plazas have occurred. The use of firearms and explosives, including grenades, drones, and air strikes, is possible. Business and traffic disruptions and telecommunication and movement controls are likely in the coming days, mainly in areas with active clashes.
Heightened security measures are likely until security operations and investigations end. Additional attacks and armed clashes may occur. Checkpoints and increased patrols will likely prompt localized transport and business disruptions across Balochistan, especially in Quetta, Gwadar, and Turbat. Locals may stage protests against prolonged security controls; popular demonstration sites include public squares and highways.
Avoid the affected areas until security forces give the all-clear. Minimize exposure to potential target sites such as government and security installations and convoys, compounds of prominent development projects, as well as crowded public places. Confirm business appointments, road status, and travel reservations if operating in the region. Avoid protests as a security precaution. Do not navigate roadblocks due to the threat of violence. Carry valid identification and remain non-confrontational if approached at checkpoints. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
Separatist groups, including the BLA, often carry out small-scale attacks on security forces, pro-government leaders, and workers from other parts of Pakistan in Balochistan Province. While most attacks occur in rural areas, one of the BLA's high-profile attacks occurred at the Pakistan Stock Exchange Building in Karachi in 2020. The BLA also often targets development projects in Balochistan associated with the high-profile Chinese-funded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including the storming of the Gwadar Port Authority complex in March 2024. BLA operatives have previously targeted Chinese interests in areas outside Balochistan Province, most notably a December 2018 attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi. A spike in violence is likely in the coming months due to the launch of a nationwide counterterror operation from late June.
