20 more Attacks claimed by BRAS on Pakistani Forces and Election Campaigns

In a significant escalation of armed activities in Balochistan, the Baloch Raji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), an alliance of several groups advocating for independence, has asserted responsibility for 20 attacks on Wednesday. These attacks specifically targeted Pakistani security forces and election campaigns in the region, underscoring heightened tensions as Pakistan approaches the 2024 general elections.

Over the course of Wednesday and the preceding day, security forces faced a series of attacks, including remote-controlled bombings and assaults utilizing heavy and automatic weapons, all claimed by BRAS. These attacks occurred in various locations such as Tump, Saami, Balgathar, Mand, Panjgur, Mastung, Sibbi, and Awaran, targeting foot patrols, vehicle convoys, and military camps, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries among security personnel.

Baloch Khan, the spokesperson for BRAS, reported a significant operation against a Pakistani forces camp in Nondara, Awaran, around 5 PM, with alleged significant casualties and material losses. An army helicopter was reportedly observed evacuating casualties from the scene.

On the night of Wednesday, February 7, BRAS ‘sarmachars’ set up a blockade on the Turbat to Mand highway at Hairabad, checking vehicles for over an hour, demonstrating their control over the area.
Baloch Khan also claimed responsibility for attacks aimed at disrupting Pakistani election campaigns, including a grenade attack on the People’s Party election office in Gresha, Khuzdar, and assaults on a polling station in Chitkan Gareeb Abad, the residence of PPP candidate Kifayatullah, the Sarawan polling station in Khudabadan, and the home of Abdul Qadeer Sajidi in Surdoo, Panjgur.
Additionally, an IED destroyed a polling station in Quetta’s Sariab area. BRAS further claimed responsibility for targeting various polling stations in Kharan, Dasht, and Kech.

In the spokesperson’s statement, BRAS expressed strong opposition to the Pakistani “so-called” electoral process in Balochistan, criticizing it as a tool for perpetuating the region’s “occupation.” The group emphasized its determination to obstruct the elections, urging the Baloch populace to boycott electoral activities and highlighting its intention to minimize civilian harm during these attacks.

As of now, there has been no official response from Pakistani authorities regarding BRAS’s latest claims. The situation in Balochistan remains tense, with BRAS, the umbrella organization of armed groups, carrying out 112 attacks across the region in just ten days.