Seven Pakistan Army soldiers were killed on Tuesday in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in the restive province of Balochistan, according to a statement by Pakistan’s military. The incident is the latest in a series of escalating violent encounters in the mineral-rich, insurgency-hit region.
The military alleged that the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group it described as an “Indian proxy,” was behind the deadly ambush. India has not yet responded to the accusations.
The attack occurred just days after the same group claimed responsibility for targeting a prison van in the province. On Sunday, between 30 and 40 armed militants reportedly blocked a key highway, intercepting a police-escorted prison transport. While the prisoners were eventually freed, five police officers were abducted. A rescue operation is currently ongoing.
In addition to the abduction, the militants set fire to multiple government buildings and a local bank. During the confrontation, security forces reportedly killed two attackers.
The BLA claimed responsibility for Tuesday’s bombing in Kalat district, a known hotspot of separatist activity. The group has repeatedly targeted infrastructure and energy projects—especially those involving foreign investors like China—as part of its long-standing armed campaign for independence from Pakistan.
Balochistan, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, has been plagued by insurgency for decades. Armed groups in the region often target government officials, security forces, and workers associated with state or foreign-backed development projects.
This week’s attack follows another deadly incident in April when a powerful roadside bomb struck a security vehicle in Quetta, killing four soldiers and injuring three others. In March, the BLA hijacked a passenger train, held hundreds hostage, and killed off-duty personnel in a dramatic three-day standoff.
The Pakistan military has vowed to continue operations in Balochistan to dismantle militant networks, while also accusing foreign elements of fueling unrest in the province.
Sources By Agencies
