Pakistani forces are reportedly conducting a clearance operation in the Union Council of Uchri, Barkhan, following clashes between armed individuals and a government-supported group, locally known as a “death squad.” According to officials, the operation began on Monday afternoon and is ongoing, with the Frontier Corps (FC) 86 Wing, Levies, and the government-backed “death squad” encircling the area.
The previous day, clashes between armed individuals and the government-backed militia, known as the Bugti Peace Force, resulted in the deaths of at least two members of the militia, with several others injured. Reports indicate that heavy gunfire was exchanged between the two groups well into the night.
The clashes erupted in the border area between Barkhan and Dera Bugti after armed individuals allegedly destroyed a mobile tower belonging to a private company. According to Khan Mohammad Masoori Bugti, a cousin of Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, members of the Bugti Peace Force pursued the attackers, which led to an exchange of fire. As a result, two members of the militia were killed, and five others were injured.
The injured personnel were evacuated to Rakhni Hospital via helicopter, according to Dera Bugti District Health Officer Dr. Azam Bugti.
As of now, no further clashes have been reported, though Pakistani forces and the government-backed militia continue to search the area for the attackers. The situation remains tense as the operation progresses.