The Nokundi FC headquarters attack has been fully repulsed after a prolonged operation in district Chagai, with Pakistani security forces killing all seven militants of the banned Baloch Liberation Front (BLF). The militants attempted to storm the Frontier Corps base using a 500-kilogram suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) followed by a coordinated gun assault.
Female Suicide Bomber Identified by BLF
The attack began when a female suicide bomber, identified by BLF as Zareena Rafiq (Turang Mahoo), detonated the 500kg SVBIED at the main gate of the Nokundi FC headquarters. The blast created a 50-foot-wide crater on the Quetta–Taftan highway, highlighting the scale of the explosives used in the Nokundi FC headquarters attack.
Security agencies say the identity of the bomber is still under verification. If confirmed, it would mark the first known use of a female suicide bomber by BLF, indicating a major shift in the group’s tactics.
Seven Militants Killed, Three Soldiers Martyred
Following the SVBIED explosion, six additional BLF militants launched a heavy-weapons assault on the FC base. Security forces engaged the attackers for nearly 48 hours before eliminating all seven militants, including the suicide bomber.
During the response and the impact of the initial 500kg blast, three soldiers embraced martyrdom.
Officials confirmed that the bodies of all seven militants are now in the custody of Pakistani authorities.
Large Cache of Weapons Recovered
After the Nokundi FC headquarters attack, security forces recovered a significant stockpile of weapons and equipment from the militants. Items seized include:
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Night Vision Goggles (NVGs)
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US-made assault rifles
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Kevlar vests
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Rocket launchers
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Grenade launchers
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Multiple grenade types
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Ammunition
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Walkie-talkie communication sets
Security officials say the sophistication of the equipment indicates strong logistical backing.
BLF’s Shift Toward Female Bombers Raises Alarm
BLF leader Allah Nazar recently urged Baloch women to join militant operations—a move widely criticized as a violation of Balochistan’s cultural and social norms.
Security analysts warn that Baloch militant groups, weakened by sustained counterterrorism pressure, are now turning to women because they are less likely to be stopped or searched at checkpoints.
Experts describe this as a deeply troubling shift, eroding long-held values in Baloch society where women traditionally receive protection and respect.
Strategic Location Heightened the Threat
The Nokundi FC base lies along the Quetta–Taftan highway in district Chagai, the only district bordering both Iran and Afghanistan. Its strategic location has made it a consistent high-value target for militant groups operating along the border belt.
Security forces have increased surveillance and patrols in the area following the Nokundi FC headquarters attack.
