Government in Balochistan, Pakistan, extends prohibition on public assemblies after coordinated attacks by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)

Balochistan Government Extends Section 144 as Baloch Liberation Army Claims Series of Attacks

The Balochistan government has extended Section 144 across the province for another 15 days, from August 31 to September 14. This marks the third extension of the emergency powers, initially imposed on August 1 for 15 days and later extended on August 16.

The decision comes in the wake of a series of coordinated attacks claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) across several districts of Balochistan. According to a statement issued by BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch, the group carried out eight separate operations in recent days.

The BLA claimed responsibility for a grenade attack on the Bandri army camp in Jeewani city, Gwadar, on Thursday night. In the Kolpur area of Kachi, BLA fighters struck army bomb disposal personnel with another remote-controlled IED, claiming one soldier was killed instantly. Another attack in Kolpur reportedly caused additional casualties and material losses to a Pakistani army vehicle on August 28.

In the Paroom area of Panjgur, BLA fighters targeted a Pakistani army vehicle with a remote-controlled IED, killing six soldiers on the spot and destroying the vehicle. The BLA also stated that its fighters intercepted police personnel in the Mian Ghundi area of Quetta, their weapons were seized, and the personnel were released after being warned not to participate in operations against the Baloch people.

The BLA further claimed that its fighters "neutralised" a man identified as Munir, alleged to be an informant for Pakistani military intelligence, in the Guwash area of Kharan on August 21. The attacks occurred in several districts including Panjgur, Kachi, Quetta, Jeewani, Kharan, Buleda, and Dalbandin.

However, the Balochistan government has not yet issued a statement regarding these attacks. The Balochistan government invoked its powers under sub-section (6) of Section 144 of the CrPC 1898 to enforce these measures. The extended restrictions in Balochistan, including a ban on public gatherings, remain in effect from August 31 to September 14.

The notification also prohibits the gathering of individuals in public spaces while using mufflers, masks, or any means that could hinder identification. The extension of Section 144 was made public through an official notification issued by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department.

The BLA warned residents allegedly aiding the Pakistani military with supplies and rations to cease their activities, saying they risk being treated as collaborators. The extended restrictions include a ban on the display and use of weapons, pillion riding, vehicles with tinted glass, unregistered motorbikes, public gatherings, sit-ins, processions, or rallies involving five or more persons.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for all parties to prioritise peace and dialogue in the pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Balochistan.

Government in Balochistan, Pakistan, extends prohibition on public assemblies after coordinated attacks by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)