In a series of disastrous terror attacks all over Balochistan in Pakistan, more than 70 people have been killed, as military and police officials reported. The military officials reported that 14 soldiers and police officers were among the victims. Additionally, 21 terrorists were killed during clashes, which included a significant assault on vehicles traveling on a major highway in Bela, a town in the Lasbela district.
Multiple terror attacks reported
In another attack in Musakhel district, at least 23 civilians were killed by the attackers after checking their identity cards. The attackers also set on fire 25 vehicles during the assault. In Kalat, ten people, including five civilians and five police officers, were killed in another attack on a police post and a highway.
Government response to the violence
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have termed the attack as ”barbaric” and condemned it. The Pakistan officials have pledged to bring the culprits to justice. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti expressed similar thoughts and vowed to hold people accountable for the attack.
The attacks happened just after the warnings were issued by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) for civilians to avoid highways. Pakistan’s Interior Minister has stated that the victims in the attacks were innocent civilians whereas the BLA has claimed responsibility for targeting military personnel who were dressed in civilian clothes. The explosion on a rail bridge resulted in the suspension of rail traffic in Quetta. The attack resulted in blocking the connection between Balochistan’s provincial capital and the rest of Pakistan.
The province of Balochistan is known for its rich resources but is also marked by poverty. It is also famous as a hotspot for insurgent activities. Reports of armed groups like BLA usually target the labourers and the government forces.
(With ANI inputs)