Tragic Attack in Balochistan: 22 Dead in Overnight Violence
In a devastating turn of events, gunmen in southwest Pakistan have killed at least 22 people after forcibly removing them from their vehicles and scrutinizing their identities. This violent incident took place on a highway in Balochistan province, a region long troubled by sectarian, ethnic, and separatist conflicts.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred overnight, with armed men stopping vehicles and checking identity documents. Reports indicate that the assailants specifically targeted individuals from Punjab, executing them before setting their vehicles on fire. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group, has claimed responsibility for this horrific event in the Musa Khel district.
Involvement and Claims
Najibullah Kakar, a senior local official, revealed that between 30 and 40 militants were involved in the attack. According to Kakar, the attackers halted 22 vehicles, examined their passengers, and shot those identified as being from Punjab. The BLA has stated that their target was military personnel traveling in civilian attire, and they had warned the Baloch public to stay away from the highway. The group declared that their conflict is with the Pakistani military, whom they accuse of occupying Balochistan.
Balochistan’s Struggles
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, remains the least developed despite its abundant resources. The ongoing violence is part of a broader trend of escalating attacks by Baloch separatists. These groups have increasingly targeted Punjabis and Sindhis working in the region and have also attacked foreign energy companies, accusing them of exploiting Balochistan’s resources without sharing the benefits.
Recent Developments
This latest incident follows a similar attack in April, when nine passengers were offloaded from a bus in Balochistan and executed after their identities were checked. Over the past 24 hours, the BLA has also targeted multiple government installations, including police stations and security forces’ camps throughout the province.
International Reaction
Several Western nations, including the UK and the US, have designated the BLA as a global terrorist organization. The international community watches closely as the violence in Balochistan continues to escalate, highlighting the ongoing struggles of the region and its people.