The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has emerged as one of the most powerful pro-independence armed groups fighting for an independent Balochistan. Since its formation in the early 2000s, the group has steadily expanded both its operational capabilities and organizational complexity.
In the past decade, the BLA has carried out a series of high-profile attacks, primarily targeting Pakistani military forces, security infrastructure, and foreign investments—particularly those tied to China’s expanding economic presence in the region.
This report examines two recent high-profile operations conducted by the BLA, its evolving organizational structure, and the increasing role of its intelligence wing, ZIRAB, in planning and executing these attacks.
Key Units Within BLA
Over time, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has developed a sophisticated organizational structure, with different units assigned specific tasks. The Majeed Brigade is responsible for executing self-sacrificing missions, while the Fateh Squad operates primarily in the mountainous regions of Balochistan, engaging in guerrilla warfare against Pakistani military forces.
The Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) conducts covert missions, often targeting high-value personnel or strategic infrastructure. ZIRAB, the group’s intelligence wing, plays a crucial role in gathering intelligence and planning operations. Meanwhile, Hakkal Media manages the BLA’s communication strategy, sharing information with the public and media outlets.
This organizational structure has enabled the BLA to coordinate complex, large-scale attacks across the region.
ZIRAB: The Intelligence Unit Behind the Operations
The Zephyr Intelligence Research & Analysis Bureau (ZIRAB) has become a key unit in the BLA’s operational framework. According to the group’s spokesperson, ZIRAB’s primary role is to gather intelligence, analyze potential targets, and assist in planning complex operations. Although ZIRAB has only recently been officially acknowledged, it has significantly contributed to the success of several recent attacks, assisting the BLA in executing large and coordinated missions.
ZIRAB’s intelligence has allowed the BLA to strike high-value targets, often deep within Pakistan’s security infrastructure. This capability was particularly evident in the attack on Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, where a Chinese delegation was targeted.
Operation Heerof: A 48-Hour Offensive
During Operation Heerof, the BLA launched near-simultaneous, coordinated attacks across Balochistan, targeting key highways, railway bridges, mineral transport vehicles, and security camps.
The operation’s most significant aspect was a 48-hour blockade of key highways, which hindered Pakistani military reinforcements and allowed BLA fighters to strike additional targets in the area. The BLA framed this action as a way to reclaim control of Balochistan from the Pakistani Army.
Although ZIRAB had not been formally recognized at the time, the operation highlighted the group’s ability to plan and coordinate effectively. Analysts argue that Operation Heerof demonstrated the BLA’s growing ability to plan and execute complex operations, highlighting its capacity to challenge state control for extended periods.
High-Profile Karachi Airport Attack
Another of the BLA’s most recent and notable operations occurred at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. In this significant attack, the group claimed to have breached the airport’s security, targeting a Chinese delegation in the VIP protocol area.
The BLA described the attack as a response to China’s disregard of their earlier warnings to leave Balochistan. The group stated, “We will not allow any foreign power to occupy Balochistan” and declared its ability to strike “anytime and anywhere.”
ZIRAB, the BLA’s intelligence wing, played a key role in gathering intelligence that facilitated the attack. This breach of one of Pakistan’s most secure facilities showcased the BLA’s increasing capabilities in targeting high-profile, heavily guarded locations.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has shown an increasing ability to carry out coordinated, high-impact attacks. Recent operations, including the Karachi Airport attack and Operation Heerof, show the group’s ability to strike key targets with precision.
The BLA’s evolving structure, with units such as the Majeed Brigade and ZIRAB, has enabled the group to execute these operations successfully. The group has declared its readiness to strike “anytime and anywhere,” and further operations of this nature are likely to continue.