In a marked escalation of armed activities in Balochistan, the Baloch Raji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), an alliance of several ‘pro-independence’ groups, has claimed responsibility for 20 attacks on Wednesday. These attacks targeted Pakistani security forces and election campaigns across the region, highlighting ongoing tensions in Balochistan as Pakistan heads towards the 2024 general elections.
On Wednesday and the preceding day, security forces encountered a series of attacks, including remote-controlled bombings and assaults using heavy and automatic weapons, for which BRAS claimed responsibility. These attacks unfolded across various locations, including Tump, Saami, Balgathar, Mand, Panjgur, Mastung, Sibbi, and Awaran, targeting foot patrols, vehicle convoys, and military camps. As a result, there were numerous casualties and injuries among the security personnel.
Baloch Khan, the spokesperson for BRAS, reported that the group’s ‘sarmachars’ (freedom fighters) executed a significant operation against a Pakistani forces camp in Nondara, Awaran, around 5 PM. This attack allegedly resulted in significant casualties and material losses, with an army helicopter later seen evacuating the casualties from the scene.
Another notable operation occurred on the night of Wednesday, February 7, when BRAS ‘sarmachars’ established a blockade on the Turbat to Mand highway at Hairabad. For over an hour, they checked vehicles, showcasing their control over the area.
Baloch Khan also claimed responsibility for several attacks aimed at disrupting Pakistani election campaigns. These included a grenade attack on the People’s Party election office in Gresha, Khuzdar, and assaults on a polling station in Chitkan Gareeb Abad, the residence of PPP candidate Kifayatullah, the Sarawan polling station in Khudabadan, and the home of Abdul Qadeer Sajidi in Surdoo, Panjgur.
Moreover, an IED obliterated a polling station in Quetta’s Sariab area. BRAS further claimed responsibility for targeting various polling stations in Kharan, Dasht, and Kech.
The spokesperson’s statement highlighted BRAS’s staunch opposition to the Pakistani “so-called” electoral process in Balochistan, criticizing it as a tool for perpetuating the region’s “occupation.” He stressed the group’s determination to obstruct the elections and urged the Baloch populace to boycott electoral activities, highlighting the group’s intention to minimize civilian harm during these attacks.
As of now, there has been no official response from Pakistani authorities regarding BRAS’s latest claims. The situation in Balochistan remains tense, with BRAS, the umbrella organization of armed groups, carrying out 112 attacks across the region in just ten days.