The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) reported significant casualties for Pakistani forces following a coordinated operation in Kharan on January 15. The BLF fighters took over the city, seized the police station, and targeted banks and government buildings. The group alleged that over 50 military personnel were killed, with many others injured during the nine-hour confrontation.
The BLF detailed its actions, stating that they captured the Kharan City Police Station, held personnel hostage, and confiscated government weapons. Additionally, they attacked various banks and government offices in the main bazaar of Kharan. The BLF claimed casualties among security personnel and individuals associated with a local “death squad.”
In a further escalation, the BLF’s Qurban Unit engaged in combat in Kharan’s main bazaar, resulting in the destruction of military vehicles and the deaths of 15 soldiers. The clashes extended to the Red Zone, where the BLF claimed to have killed 27 soldiers and destroyed two armored vehicles, forcing the remaining forces to retreat.
The BLF also targeted a military convoy in the Kulan area, leading to the destruction of three military vehicles and the deaths of numerous soldiers, including eight SSG commandos. The group reported shooting down eight quadcopter drones during the operation. Despite casualties on both sides, the BLF emphasized the loss of four of its fighters during the operation and subsequent drone strikes.
The BLF’s version of events contradicted the Pakistan military’s account, which stated that a smaller group of attackers was involved, with 12 individuals killed during clearance operations. Pakistani forces were reported to have repelled the attackers, as per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement.
