The Baloch rebel group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed that its ongoing offensive, named Operation Herof Phase II, has lasted over 40 hours across multiple districts of Balochistan, alleging heavy casualties among Pakistani security forces and asserting control in several urban and rural areas.
In statements issued by BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch, the group said its fighters completed operations in Kharan, Mastung, Tump, and Pasni, while fighting continued in other locations. The group also claimed a presence in parts of Quetta and Noshki, stating that Islamabad’s military presence had been “repelled.”
Claims of 200 Pakistan Personnel Killed
According to the BLA, more than 200 personnel from the Pakistan Army, police, and Frontier Corps were killed, and at least 17 individuals captured. The group described these numbers as “preliminary and cautious estimates,” suggesting actual losses could be higher. These claims have not been independently verified. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, however, reported 17 law enforcement personnel and 31 civilians killed in the attacks.
The BLA also said it had detained and later released Deputy Commissioner of Noshki Muhammad Hussain Hazara and Assistant Commissioner Maria Shamoo, describing the release as a “humanitarian gesture.” The group said it does not target local civil administration or police unless they actively resist, warning officials assisting the military would be considered hostile.
BLA Fighters Killed
Pakistan’s military reported that 92 separatists were killed on Saturday and 41 on Friday. The BLA acknowledged the deaths of 18 of its own fighters, including 11 ‘fidayeen’ (suicide bombers) of the Majeed Brigade, four from the Fateh Squad, and three from the STOS unit.
The group confirmed the involvement of female fighters. Among them was Asifa Mengal, who carried out a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) operation targeting the ISI headquarters in Noshki. The BLA said she joined the Majeed Brigade on October 2, 2023, made her fidayee decision in January 2024, and died on Friday.
In another statement, the BLA highlighted ‘Fidayee’ Hawa Baloch at the Gwadar Front, who fought alongside fellow Fidayeen. The group shared a video of her final message, sent twelve hours before her death. (Agencies)
