IED Attack in Quetta Kills 10 Pakistani Soldiers: Baloch Freedom Fighters Claim Responsibility

International Desk

Quetta, April 27, 2025: A remote-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) attack on the outskirts of Quetta in Margat, Balochistan, has killed 10 Pakistani soldiers. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which refers to the Pakistani military as “occupiers,” has claimed responsibility for the attack.

BLA spokesperson Jiand Baloch stated, “Baloch freedom fighters carried out a remote-controlled IED attack targeting a Pakistani Army convoy in Margat, Quetta. The operation completely destroyed an enemy vehicle, killing all 10 soldiers on board.” The statement identified Subedar Shahzad Amin and Naib Subedar Abbas among the casualties.

Reports indicate that the attack occurred on Friday, April 25, and the BLA has released a video showing an explosion in a mountainous area. The group further announced that such operations against the Pakistani military would continue “with intensity.”

This attack is part of an ongoing separatist movement in Balochistan, where the BLA and other nationalist groups accuse the Pakistani government of exploiting natural resources, enforcing disappearances, conducting torture, and manipulating elections. They are fighting for an independent Baloch state.

Last month, the BLA carried out a significant attack on the Zafar Express train, taking approximately 440 passengers hostage and resulting in 21 deaths. Analysts note a significant increase in the intensity, complexity, and geographical scope of the Baloch insurgency since 2017.

Pakistani authorities have yet to issue an official statement on this attack. However, the incident has further highlighted Pakistan’s internal security vulnerabilities. Following the attack, Indian Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey sparked controversy with comments on Pakistan’s territorial integrity on social media.