BLA claims responsibility, calls it ‘new phase’ of operations

The banned separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack and described it as an expansion of its operational scope.“Following operations on land, the actions in the maritime borders mark a new evolution in the BLA’s military strategy,” the group said in a statement, according to Reuters.The attack comes amid a long-running insurgency in Balochistan, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted security forces, infrastructure and state establishments.

Security increased in coastal area

Authorities have launched an investigation and increased security presence in the area, according to intelligence and police sources cited by Reuters. The incident occurred near Jiwani, a coastal town near the strategically important port district of Gwadar.Gwadar and surrounding areas have been subject to repeated terrorist attacks in recent years, with insurgents often targeting security forces and infrastructure associated with major development projects in the region.

widespread unrest in balochistan

Balochistan faces parallel security challenges including separatist insurgency as well as sectarian violence. In a separate incident on Sunday, two members of the Hazara community were shot dead in Quetta, while three others were injured in what officials described as a targeted attack.Police officials said unidentified gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on vegetable vendors, prompting members of the Hazara community to protest and block the road. According to Arab News, no group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langove said that security forces and civilians are “jointly fighting the menace of terrorism,” adding that “killers of innocent civilians will not be spared at any cost”.