The Baloch Raaji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), an alliance of Baloch “pro-independence” armed groups, has claimed responsibility for a series of coordinated attacks across Balochistan, marking March 27, according to the group, on this day in 1948, the “occupying” state of Pakistan took control of Baloch territory through a military coup. According to the statement issued by BRAS spokesperson Baloch Khan, the group carried out 72 attacks targeting security personnel, government installations, intelligence agencies, and economic assets.
The statement asserts that at least 32 Pakistani security personnel were killed, with more than 40 others injured. In addition, 14 vehicles were reportedly destroyed. The group also imposed blockades on key highways in over 30 locations across Balochistan, restricting traffic and engaging in targeted operations against state personnel.
Major Incidents Across Balochistan
In Gwadar, BRAS fighters blocked the Coastal Highway between Pasni and Ormara for two hours, targeting and eliminating six Pakistani military personnel traveling in civilian transport. A gas tanker carrying LPG was also set ablaze. Another attack in Gwadar city’s Padi Zir area saw a military vehicle hit by an IED, killing five soldiers and injuring two others.
In Turbat, BRAS fighters attacked a military intelligence office, fired rockets at a helipad, and targeted an army camp in Gorhkop Sourdi. Similar armed confrontations occurred in Kolwah, where fighters used rocket launchers and heavy artillery, resulting in multiple casualties among security personnel.
Additionally, blockades were enforced on the Kharan-Quetta, Quetta-Taftan, and Quetta-Karachi highways. In Noshki, BRAS fighters ambushed a convoy, eliminating three security personnel and injuring six more. The spokesperson also claimed responsibility for targeting a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) office in Surab, injuring two personnel with a grenade attack.
Operations in Karachi and Other Areas
The wave of attacks extended beyond Balochistan, with BRAS claiming responsibility for grenade assaults on police stations in Karachi, Hub City, and Rahim Yar Khan. Three police officers were reportedly injured in a Quaidabad police station attack, while a separate attack on a CTD vehicle near the Northern Bypass left three more injured.
In Dera Bugti, BRAS fighters targeted an army check post in Kattan Pul and sabotaged a gas pipeline from Sui to Punjab, disrupting energy supplies. Further operations were carried out in Sibi, Mastung, and Bolan, where security forces were attacked and military posts raided.
‘Martyrdom’ of BRAS Fighter
BRAS also confirmed the death of one of its key fighters, Jahanzeb Mengal alias Balach Jam, in Noshki. The group claims that Mengal engaged in a three-hour-long clash with Pakistani forces, eliminating eight soldiers before succumbing to his injuries. The spokesperson described Mengal as a member of the elite Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) of the Baloch Liberation Army and a significant asset in previous operations.
BRAS’ Justification and Future Intentions
The alliance group stated that the March 27 attacks were carried out to mark the anniversary of Pakistan’s military takeover of Balochistan in 1948, which it considers an illegal occupation. BRAS reaffirmed its commitment to what it calls a ‘national liberation struggle’ and warned of more intense operations in the future.
Pakistani authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the BRAS claims. However, security forces have previously attributed such attacks to separatist insurgents and vowed continued counterterrorism efforts in the region.
The situation remains tense in Balochistan, as security measures have heightened following BRAS’ latest offensive.