Four Baloch fighters have been killed in a clash with a “state-backed” armed group in Balochistan’s Barkhan district, according to local sources.
The confrontation took place on Friday in the Koh-e-Jandar area of Rakni tehsil. Residents said heavy weapons were used by both sides during the fighting, which lasted for several hours.
The deceased have been identified as Mustafa Noor from Tasp, Panjgur; Samiullah from Malai Bazaar, Turbat; Rasaan Qadir from Dansar, Awaran; and Shahzaib from Guni, Greshag.
Sources said the bodies were later moved to a hospital in Rakni.
The “state-backed” armed group is referred to locally as a “death squad” — a term used by residents and activists to describe pro-government militias. Activists allege that these groups operate under the protection of Pakistani military and intelligence agencies.
The Pakistani authorities have not issued any statement regarding the incident.
Elsewhere in Balochistan, heavy clashes were reported in the Spilinji area of Mastung district during a military operation by Pakistani forces.
Residents said a large number of troops entered the mountainous area late Thursday night. Soon afterwards, exchanges of gunfire and multiple explosions were heard.
“There were casualties on both sides,” a local source said. “Ambulances were seen going in and out, and more troops were brought in as reinforcements.”
The exact number of dead or injured remains unconfirmed.
No Baloch armed group has so far claimed responsibility for the fighting. However, Baloch fighters remain active in the mountains surrounding Spilinji and have previously carried out attacks on military convoys and positions in the region.