Pakistan: Two soldiers killed in ambush in Balochistan October 25

Event

On Thursday, October 25, separatist militants ambushed a Pakistani military convoy in Washk district (Balochistan province), killing at least two soldiers. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) claimed responsibility for the attack. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in the area in the coming days. Additional Baloch separatist attacks are possible in Balochistan province in the near-term.

Context

The southwestern province of Balochistan has experienced a low-level insurgency by Baloch nationalists intermittently since 1948. Multiple Baloch separatist groups, such as the BLF and the BLA, demand increased political autonomy for the Baloch people in Pakistan and control over natural resources within the province.

Advice

Individuals in Balochistan province are advised to remain vigilant at all times and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.

As a reminder, due to the high threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and sectarian violence throughout the country, Western governments usually advise their citizens against all nonessential travel to Pakistan. Remain vigilant at all times and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.