Pakistan’s security forces have killed at least 145 armed fighters in the southwestern province of Balochistan following a large-scale manhunt launched after a wave of coordinated attacks across the region.
The operation comes after gun and bomb assaults targeted multiple locations, leaving nearly 50 people dead, including civilians and security personnel, marking one of the most serious security escalations in the province in decades.
Coordinated Attacks Across Key Districts
The violence began early Saturday, striking several districts including:
- Quetta
- Gwadar
- Mastung
- Noshki
Attackers reportedly opened fire on security installations, attempted suicide bombings, and temporarily blocked major roads in urban areas, creating widespread panic and disruption.
Officials stated that ordinary citizens working in markets and shops were also targeted during the assaults.
🔗 Recommended Stories
- Pakistan Security Forces Kill 41 Militants in Major Balochistan Raids
- EU Declares Iran’s IRGC a Terrorist Organization After Protest Crackdown
Heavy Casualties Reported
According to authorities, the attacks resulted in:
- 31 civilian deaths, including women
- 17 security personnel killed
Following these events, security forces responded swiftly with raids and counter-operations, leading to the reported killing of 145 fighters over two days.
Provincial leadership described it as one of the largest militant losses in recent years.
Government Imposes Emergency Restrictions
In response to the escalating violence, provincial authorities introduced strict security measures, including:
- Bans on public gatherings and demonstrations
- Restricted traffic movement in sensitive areas
- Prohibition of face coverings in public to prevent identity concealment
Security patrols have been intensified, and sanitisation operations are continuing to locate any remaining suspects.
Regional Tensions and Allegations
Pakistan has claimed that some fighters involved may have had external backing, including alleged links to neighbouring countries. These claims have been strongly denied by the accused parties.
The situation has added to already fragile regional security dynamics.
Balochistan’s Long-Running Conflict
Balochistan has faced decades of unrest, driven by separatist violence and militant attacks. Armed groups have repeatedly targeted security forces, infrastructure projects, and at times civilians, contributing to instability in Pakistan’s largest but poorest province.
International Condemnation
The attacks have drawn condemnation from global actors, with several countries expressing solidarity with Pakistan and denouncing violence against civilians.
