7 Pakistani soldiers killed in IED attack in southwestern Balochistan province

By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) - Seven Pakistani security personnel were killed on Tuesday after separatist militants targeted a military vehicle in the country's southwestern Balochistan province, the army's media wing said.

Militants belonging to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) targeted the vehicle carrying security forces with an improvised explosive device (IED) near the town of Mach in Kacchi district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

“Sanitization of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorist present in the area, and perpetrators of this heinous and cowardly act will be brought to justice,” the statement added.

Pakistan's security forces, aligned with the nation, remain resolute in countering efforts to undermine the peace, stability, and development of Balochistan, the ISPR added.

According to the latest report by Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, Balochistan experienced a 40% decrease in militant activity in April, with 21 attacks reported compared to 35 in March.

Fatalities from militant attacks and security forces’ actions also dropped from 122 to 59 — a 52% reduction.

The separatist BLA has long been in the restive Balochistan province. In March, BLA militants hijacked a train carrying over 400 passengers, killing 31 people, including soldiers, staff and civilians.