In Barkhan, Balochistan, a violent clash between Baloch fighters and a ‘state-backed’ armed group claimed the lives of four individuals. The incident took place in the Koh-e-Jandar area of Rakni tehsil on Friday and lasted for several hours, according to local accounts. Witnesses described the use of heavy weapons during the fighting.
The deceased have been identified: Mustafa Noor, Samiullah, Rasaan Qadir, and Shahzaib. Following the gunfight, their remains were taken to a Rakni hospital. The opposing force was identified as a ‘state-backed death squad,’ a designation used by residents and activists for pro-government militias believed to be supported by Pakistan’s military and intelligence. The Pakistani authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
In a separate development, heavy combat was reported in the Spilinji area of Mastung district during a military operation conducted by Pakistani forces. The operation involved large deployments of troops into the mountainous region late Thursday night, leading to intense gunfire and explosions. While casualties occurred on both sides, the specific figures remain unknown. No Baloch armed group has yet claimed responsibility for the Spilinji clashes. The situation in Balochistan remains volatile, with armed Baloch groups active in the region and escalating conflict between nationalist groups and state forces.