Pakistan: Six soldiers killed in ambush in Balochistan December 14

Event

On Friday, December 14, suspected separatist militants ambushed a Pakistani military convoy in Kech district (Balochistan province). According to Pakistani security officials, six soldiers were killed and at least 14 more wounded in the ambush. As of Friday afternoon (local time), no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in the area in the coming days. Additional 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.