The Baloch Raji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), an alliance of multiple “pro-independence armed groups, has claimed responsibility for 16 new attacks targeting Pakistani security forces, intelligence agencies, state-backed groups, and government installations in Balochistan. These attacks bring the total number of operations conducted by BRAS in the past four days to 88, according to a statement released by the group’s spokesperson, Baloch Khan.
The attacks were carried out on March 27, marking the anniversary of Pakistan’s takeover of Balochistan in 1948, which BRAS describes as an illegal military occupation. The group claims its armed resistance is aimed at reinforcing the narrative that Balochistan remains an occupied territory.
Details of the Attacks
BRAS reported capturing a Levies station in the Naag area of Washuk, detaining five personnel before releasing them after issuing a warning. Weapons, military equipment, a vehicle, and a motorcycle were seized in the raid. Additionally, the group claimed responsibility for an attack on a police station in the Nasirabad and Khairabad areas of Turbat, where they reportedly seized weapons and motorcycles before setting the station and two vehicles on fire. During this incident, three Pakistani security personnel were killed, and several others were injured, according to BRAS. A surveillance drone was also reportedly shot down.
In Turbat, BRAS fighters attacked a security post of the Pakistani Navy using automatic and heavy weapons, causing unspecified damages. Another attack targeted a military camp in the Sabdan area of Dasht, where two soldiers were allegedly killed, and four others injured. A separate assault was carried out on a Pakistani army post in the Khadan area of Kech, causing reported losses.
Further attacks took place in the Meerabad area of Tump, Mand Soro, and Mashkay, where BRAS claimed to have inflicted casualties and damaged military infrastructure. The group also reported targeting a police post in Mashkay and setting up blockades along the Quetta-Karachi highway in Khuzdar, detaining six individuals before releasing them. In Dera Murad Jamali, BRAS said it destroyed vehicles transporting minerals and attacked a Pakistani army checkpoint.
A checkpoint at Kadak on Taali Road in Sibi was also reportedly targeted. Additionally, BRAS claimed responsibility for a grenade attack on a narcotics office in Jeewani, alleging that the facility was being used as a base by Pakistani intelligence agencies.
Ongoing Insurgency
BRAS stated that these attacks are part of its broader resistance against what it calls the occupation of Balochistan. The group reiterated its commitment to continuing military operations until Balochistan gains independence.
There has been no immediate response from Pakistani authorities regarding BRAS’s claims. However, Pakistan has consistently denied allegations of occupation, asserting that Balochistan is an integral part of the country. Security forces have been engaged in counterinsurgency operations against “separatist” groups in the region for years.
The latest escalation highlights the continued unrest in Balochistan, where insurgent groups have been carrying out attacks against security forces and government infrastructure in pursuit of their demand for independence.
Background
Balochistan has witnessed a long-running insurgency by “pro-independence” groups, including BRAS, which seek greater autonomy or independence from Pakistan. The region, rich in natural resources, has been a focal point of tensions between the state and armed groups. While the government has intensified its military operations, attacks by Baloch armed factions have persisted, even intensified.