The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, has claimed responsibility for the deadly attacks that occurred in southwestern Pakistan on Sunday and Monday.
These attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 60 people, including at least 14 soldiers and police officials.
In a statement, the BLA warned of continued attacks on Tuesday, prompting Pakistani authorities to remain on high alert. The recent violence marked one of the deadliest single-day incidents in the region.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at a cabinet meeting, condemned the attacks and accused them of being aimed at disrupting cooperation between the local government and China.
The Balochistan region, rich in oil and mineral resources, has been a focal point for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
However, the impoverished population of Balochistan has expressed opposition to the CPEC, citing concerns about its impact on their livelihoods and the environment. Mass protests erupted in the region in August, highlighting the discontent among the Baloch people.
One of the major projects under the CPEC is the China-backed international airport in Gwadar, a port city in Balochistan.
While the airport was expected to boost economic growth, it has faced significant opposition from the local Baloch population.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), a civil rights group, has mobilized the local people against the alleged “Baloch genocide” perpetrated by Pakistani authorities. BYC leader Mahrang Baloch has accused the government of carrying out thousands of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.