Baloch Liberation Army Claims Capture of Pakistani Security Forces, Demands Prisoner Swap
New Delhi – The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group operating in Pakistan, has claimed responsibility for the capture of seven members of Pakistani security forces, issuing a seven-day ultimatum for a prisoner exchange. The group threatens the detainees could face execution if negotiations fail.
The BLA, through its media wing Hakkal, released a statement alongside a video message indicating six days remain on the deadline. The group alleges the security personnel were captured during the second phase of an operation dubbed “Operation Herof,” claiming a total of 17 personnel were initially detained.
According to the BLA, ten of those initially captured were released after being identified as ethnic Baloch individuals linked to local police. The decision, the group stated, was based on “ground realities,” local identity, and the interests of the Baloch population. The remaining seven, they claim, are members of regular units of the Pakistani army.
The BLA asserts these seven detainees have been subjected to proceedings before a “Baloch National Court,” facing charges including involvement in actions against civilians, aiding enforced disappearances, and participation in what the group describes as “genocide” against the Baloch people. The BLA claims the accused were given a chance to respond to allegations, with evidence presented and “confessional statements” recorded.
“Baloch Liberation Army believes that even in war situations, principles, rules and mutual responsibilities exist,” the BLA statement read. “Now the decision rests with occupying Pakistani state whether it takes serious steps to protect lives of its personnel or prefers death of its rented personnel by adopting silence and indifference as usual.”
The group says it is offering to exchange the seven detainees for the release of Baloch prisoners held by Pakistani authorities, claiming previous offers have been ignored.
Pakistan has consistently denied accusations of occupation in Balochistan, a resource-rich province bordering Afghanistan and Iran, and designates the BLA as a terrorist organization. The group is also proscribed as a terrorist entity by the United States and the United Kingdom.
The Balochistan conflict has simmered for decades, fueled by grievances over economic marginalization, political representation, and alleged human rights abuses. Baloch nationalists claim the central government in Islamabad exploits the province’s natural resources while suppressing the Baloch population.
The region has seen a surge in militant activity in recent months, raising concerns about regional stability. According to the South Asia Terrorism Portal, Balochistan has experienced a significant increase in attacks targeting security forces and infrastructure in 2023 and early 2024. (https://www.satp.org/pakistan/balochistan/index.html)
Neither the Pakistani military nor government officials have yet issued a public response to the BLA’s claims. The lack of immediate comment underscores the sensitivity of the situation and the potential for escalation. The international community is closely monitoring developments, given the potential for broader regional implications.