Coordinated attacks targeting positions of alleged state-backed armed groups and military convoys were reported in Panjgur district of Balochistan late on Saturday night, local sources said.
The attacks come after reports that more than 20 young men were allegedly abducted and later killed in Panjgur in recent weeks, with residents and activists blaming state-backed armed groups for the incidents.
A large number of armed men launched simultaneous assaults across Khudabadan, Garmkan, Chitkan, Tasp, Football Chowk and Pashkol, taking control of multiple locations for several hours, the sources said.
They said the attacks targeted hideouts of pro-government armed groups, commonly referred to as “death squads.” Hideouts linked to individuals identified as Bahram, Shahedok, Kaleemullah, Farhan, Saud and Shahzaib were among those attacked during the hours-long assaults.
Military convoys were also targeted in ambush-style attacks at Football Chowk and Paskol, with casualties reported. The number of those killed or injured could not be independently verified.
Pakistani Authorities have not provided official details regarding the incidents.
Residents said internet services were suspended, while people remained confined to their homes amid a security lockdown and raids by Pakistani forces since early morning.
Local residents and human rights organisations have long alleged that “death squads” operate with state backing and are involved in enforced disappearances and targeted killings, as well as crimes including extortion, land grabbing and drug trafficking.
Activists say the groups form part of what they describe as broader counter-insurgency efforts in the region aimed at suppressing Balochistan’s independence movement.