At least 11 soldiers from Pakistan’s paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) were killed and dozens more were injured in an attack targeting a bus carrying soldiers in Balochistan’s Turbat, as reported by Balochistan Post.
The blast occurred in a suburban area on Saturday, striking a convoy traveling from Karachi to Kech. Officials confirmed that the convoy consisted of seven buses and six escort vehicles. The targeted bus, which carried 53 people—mostly FC personnel—was severely damaged, and two FC vehicles were also affected.
Balochistan Post reported that the attack resulted in 11 fatalities and 48 serious injuries, with all passengers on the bus being impacted. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a pro-independence group, claimed responsibility for the attack.
Jeeyand Baloch, the group’s spokesperson, stated that the Majeed Brigade, its “Fidayee” (self-sacrificing) unit, carried out the attack, causing significant casualties among what he referred to as the “occupying Pakistani army.” He added that a detailed statement would be released soon.
Security forces and police quickly responded to the scene, cordoning off the area to begin their investigation. Unfortunately, Quetta Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Zohaib Mohsin and his family were reportedly caught in the blast and taken to a hospital for treatment. Balochistan Post reported that SSP Mohsin sustained minor injuries, while four of his family members were also injured. The wounded were transferred to various hospitals, and the bodies of the deceased were sent to their home districts once formalities were completed.
In the wake of the attack, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the incident and offered prayers for the victims. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti also expressed deep sorrow, calling those responsible “inhumane,” and extended condolences to the affected families.
The Baloch Liberation Army is known as one of the most active pro-independence armed groups in Balochistan, frequently carrying out high-profile attacks. In its annual report, “Dhak – 2024,” the group claimed responsibility for more than 300 operations last year, allegedly killing hundreds of Pakistani soldiers.