Baloch Liberation Army Attacks Pakistani Military Bus in Noshki, Balochistan; Multiple Casualties Reported
March 16, 2025 | Balochistan, Pakistan
In a major escalation of insurgent violence, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a Pakistani military bus in the Noshki district of Balochistan. According to the BLA’s statement, the ambush resulted in the deaths of at least 90 Pakistani security personnel. While independent verification of the casualty figures remains challenging, local sources and security officials have confirmed the deaths of at least 12 Pakistani soldiers, with more than 26 others injured.
Attack on FC Forces Bus
The attack took place on the Regional Corporate Development (RCD) N-40 highway near the Rakshani Mill area of Noshki. As per initial reports, the Frontier Corps (FC) convoy was moving through the region when unidentified armed militants launched a surprise assault on one of the buses. The assailants first targeted the vehicle with explosives, followed by heavy gunfire, leaving several soldiers dead on the spot.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing multiple ambulances and military choppers rushing to the scene in the aftermath of the attack, indicating a large-scale emergency response.
BLA Claims Responsibility
Shortly after the incident, the BLA released a statement taking responsibility for the attack. The militant group, which has been waging an armed insurgency against the Pakistani state for years, claimed that their fighters inflicted heavy casualties on the security forces. The group’s spokesperson stated that 90 Pakistani personnel had been killed so far, though Pakistani authorities have not confirmed this figure.
Rising Insurgency in Balochistan
Balochistan has long been a hotspot for insurgent activities, with various separatist groups, including the BLA, fighting for greater autonomy or independence. The province, rich in natural resources, has witnessed frequent clashes between militants and Pakistani security forces. The BLA and other militant groups accuse Islamabad of exploiting Balochistan’s resources while subjecting its people to state repression.
In recent months, Baloch insurgents have intensified their attacks on Pakistani security forces, particularly targeting military convoys, check posts, and government installations. This latest attack in Noshki highlights the growing instability in the region and raises serious concerns for Pakistan’s internal security.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistani authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident, but security forces are reportedly conducting a search operation in the region to apprehend the attackers. Intelligence agencies are on high alert, and additional military reinforcements have been dispatched to Balochistan to prevent further assaults.
Meanwhile, analysts suggest that this attack could prompt a harsher crackdown by the Pakistani military in the region. Past insurgent attacks have led to increased security operations, often resulting in clashes, arrests, and civilian casualties.
International Concerns
The deteriorating security situation in Balochistan is also being closely watched by regional powers, especially given the province’s strategic significance. With the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Balochistan, any escalation in violence poses a threat to Chinese investments and regional stability.
While Pakistan has repeatedly blamed foreign elements for supporting Baloch insurgents, groups like the BLA insist that their struggle is homegrown and rooted in grievances against Islamabad’s policies.
Conclusion
The Noshki attack is a stark reminder of the persistent unrest in Balochistan and the challenges faced by Pakistani security forces in containing the insurgency. With the BLA vowing to continue its armed resistance, further escalations cannot be ruled out in the coming weeks. As Pakistan grapples with this latest security crisis, the situation in Balochistan remains highly volatile.
Authorities are expected to release more details as the investigation into the attack progresses.
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