In Pakistan’s restive province of Balochistan, a three-day anti-terrorist operation has resulted in a staggering 255 fatalities. According to official sources, 197 of the dead were members of an “India-backed” separatist militant group, while 22 were Pakistani security personnel. Tragically, 36 civilians—including women and children—also lost their lives during the violence.
The information was reported by Geo News on Wednesday. The crisis began on 31 January, when the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) launched a coordinated wave of attacks across twelve towns and settlements in the province. On that first day alone, 17 security officers and 31 civilians were killed, effectively paralyzing daily life across Balochistan.
Over the subsequent three days, violence spread to multiple districts, including Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Turbat, Gwadar, and Pasni. Security sources confirmed that among the civilian casualties were 36 women and children caught in the crossfire of indiscriminate attacks.
In response, the Pakistani Army and law enforcement agencies launched an extensive clearance operation across the province. The military’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) media wing stated that militants from the group “Fitna al-Hindustan” had deliberately targeted civilians, killing at least 18 innocent people, including women, children, and labourers.
The following table summarises the casualties by category and location:
| Category | Fatalities | Key Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Separatist Militants | 197 | Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Turbat, Gwadar, Pasni |
| Pakistani Security Forces | 22 | Various checkpoints and operation zones across the province |
| Civilians (including women & children) | 36 | Affected towns and conflict zones |
| Total | 255 | – |
ISPR further reported that in the initial phase of the operation, 92 militants were killed, including three suicide bombers. Security forces successfully foiled further militant attempts, while sanitation and clearing operations were conducted in the affected areas to apprehend the planners and collaborators.
Intelligence reports indicate that the attacks were orchestrated under the direct guidance of militant leaders operating from abroad, who maintained real-time communication with the attackers.
The events underscore the deeply rooted presence of terrorism in Balochistan, posing a sustained threat to provincial stability, peace, and development. Authorities have called for heightened vigilance and comprehensive counter-terror strategies to prevent further incidents and safeguard civilian populations.