QUETTA, BALOCHISTAN: Pakistani forces came under a series of coordinated armed attacks across Balochistan on Tuesday, with incidents reported in Quetta, Kharan and Kech, while mineral transport associations suspended loading operations Balochistan-wide in response to escalating violence targeting convoys and construction companies.
In Quetta, unidentified armed men targeted a Pakistani security forces checkpost located at Degree College on Saryab Road. Multiple explosions and intense gunfire were reported at the scene. Authorities confirmed the attack but have not yet released details regarding casualties.
Simultaneously, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) office in Kharan’s Red Zone was attacked from multiple directions by armed men. Local sources reported more than eight blasts and heavy firing near the CTD compound. Ambulances were later seen rushing to the scene. Officials confirmed the attack but provided no immediate casualty figures.
In the Kolwah area of Kech, armed men ambushed a Pakistani military convoy as it was entering the area for an operation, killing three soldiers belonging to Infantry and Engineers units. Reinforcements were subsequently deployed to the site, the area was cordoned off, and the bodies were recovered.
Against the backdrop of relentless attacks on mineral-carrying vehicles, the Balochistan Truck Owners Association and the All Balochistan Mini Mazda Goods Truck Owners Association held an emergency meeting attended by truck owners from across Balochistan.
Leaders expressed serious concern over recent attacks in Mastung, Kharan, Noshki, Chagai, and surrounding areas. Dozens of trucks have been damaged in these attacks, severely disrupting the supply and transportation of minerals.
Both associations formally announced the suspension of all mineral loading until further notice, with additional announcements expected at a press conference on Tuesday.
Last week in Noshki, a large group of armed men fired rockets and other weapons on a convoy of more than 20 mineral-laden trailers originating from Saindak, destroying over eight vehicles and killing at least six security personnel.
In separate incidents, two trucks in Kharan and three in Mastung were set ablaze. Three non-local employees of a mining company were also abducted in Dalbandin their bodies were recovered on Tuesday.
