The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed that at least 18 Pakistani military personnel were killed in a suicide attack on a military camp in Mastung district of restive Balochistan on Thursday.In a video message, the separatist outfit said its Majeed Brigade carried out the attack in the Kandawa area using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED), destroying the military camp and nearby security checkpoints. The group also claimed that several other personnel were injured in the blast.According to the BLA, militants belonging to its Fateh Squad entered the camp following the explosion and attacked security personnel who had survived the blast.
It further claimed that a nearby security post was targeted as part of the coordinated operation.The outfit identified the suicide attacker as Usama Shahwani, alias Wadood, a resident of Khadkocha in Mastung. It said Shahwani joined the organisation in 2022 and became a member of its Majeed Brigade in 2024.
The BLA further claimed that Shahwani had participated in several operations in Kalat, Nagaho and Shoor Parod. It also said he fought for three days during its so-called Operation Herof II in Nushki.The group also used the statement to reiterate its opposition to mineral exploration and investment projects in Balochistan, threatening foreign companies and investors involved in such ventures.
It specifically targeted the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, alleging that mineral projects in the province were aimed at exploiting its natural resources. The outfit warned that companies and investors participating in these projects could face attacks.The BLA said its armed campaign would continue until Pakistani security forces withdrew from Balochistan and the region achieved independence.The claims of casualties and the extent of damage to the military installation has not been independently verified.
Islamabad has also not commented on the claims.- Ends