Security forces on Wednesday successfully foiled a BLA attack in Kharan after dozens of heavily armed terrorists stormed the city and attempted to loot a private bank. The swift response resulted in the killing of 12 terrorists, including several Afghan nationals, while key facilitators were arrested alive.
According to officials, the attackers belonged to the banned outfit Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and had entered the city with the objective of looting banks and spreading fear.
According to security sources and local officials, around 30 to 40 heavily armed terrorists, including approximately 25 Afghan citizens, stormed Kharan on Wednesday evening. The militants arrived on vehicles and motorcycles and targeted a private bank, attempting to loot cash and set parts of the building on fire, causing panic among residents.
Local residents alerted security forces after witnessing arson at the bank, prompting an immediate response. Security forces swiftly engaged the attackers, leading to intense gunfights that continued for several hours. By Wednesday night, the operation was concluded with 12 terrorists neutralised, while three high-value militants were arrested alive. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the attackers.
Officials said no police personnel were killed in the attack. However, the terrorists caused damage to public and private property before being neutralised or forced to flee.
Security sources said a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major led the operation despite sustaining injuries, describing it as a clear demonstration of resolve and professionalism. “This action sends an unambiguous message that there is no space for terrorism on Pakistan’s soil,” a security official said.
Authorities noted that the BLA attack aimed to undermine economic activity and create fear by targeting financial institutions and public property. While the main operation concluded on Wednesday night, search and clearance operations are ongoing in and around Kharan to ensure no remaining militants are present.
The incident comes months after a BLA attack on the Judicial Complex in Kharan in October last year, when terrorists set the building on fire and destroyed vital court records before fleeing, reflecting a continued pattern of attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Security across Kharan has been further tightened, with officials reiterating that public vigilance and swift response remain critical to maintaining peace and stability in Balochistan.
