Terror Attacks and Security Forces' Response in Balochistan
A Night of Violence: Terrorist Attacks Rock Balochistan
Balochistan witnessed a series of horrific attacks on the night of August 26, 2024. Armed men targeted Levies and police stations in Mastung, Kalat, Pasni, and Suntsar, leading to casualties and destruction. Reports of blasts and grenade attacks emerged from several other locations, including Sibi, Panjgur, Mastung, Turbat, Bela, and Quetta. The banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for these attacks.
Security Forces Respond: Neutralizing Terrorists
In the face of these attacks, security forces and law enforcement agencies responded swiftly. According to state-run Radio Pakistan, 12 terrorists have been neutralized so far, with many others injured. The operation is ongoing, aiming to eliminate the remaining threats.
Civilian Casualties and Damaged Infrastructure
The attacks in Kalat district inflicted a heavy toll. Kalat Superintendent of Police (SP) Dostain Dashti reported 11 casualties, including security personnel and civilians. The violence also resulted in injuries to six individuals. Reports detail attacks on the Pasni police station, where personnel were injured and vehicles were burned. In Suntsar, attackers ransacked the police station and stole official weapons.
Armed men attacked Levies Thana Khadkocha, taking personnel hostage in Mastung. In Kalat, law enforcement agencies engaged in a firefight with attackers. SP Dashti confirmed the martyrdom of four Levies sepoys and a police sub-inspector. Tribal elders and civilians were also among the casualties. Kalat Assistant Commissioner Aftab Lasi sustained injuries during the exchange of fire.
Highway Closure and Emergency Measures
The clashes occurred at various points along the Quetta-Karachi highway, leading to its closure for traffic. Hospitals in the region implemented emergency measures to handle the injured. Bodies and injured victims were transported to Kalat Civil Hospital.
Government Response and Investigations
Following these tragic events, security concerns have risen across Pakistan. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi released a statement on social media platform X, vowing to bring forward the facts and evidence following a thorough investigation into the attacks.
Separate Tragedy: Passengers Killed in Identity Checks
Earlier on the same day, a separate incident claimed the lives of at least 23 people in Balochistan's Musakhail district. Armed men stopped vehicles, identified passengers from Punjab based on their ID cards, and then fatally shot them.
A Call for Peace and Stability
These attacks highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by Balochistan. It is crucial for authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of all citizens. Only through a collaborative effort can peace and stability be restored in the region.