90 Pakistani soldiers killed in car-bus collision in Balochistan.
At least 70 people were killed in a devastating attack on a Pakistani military convoy in Balochistan on Sunday, March 16, 2025, with conflicting claims being made about the exact number of casualties. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack, saying 90 military personnel were killed. However, official sources have confirmed seven deaths and 21 injuries.
The attack took place on the RCD Highway, where a convoy of seven buses and two vehicles was travelling from Quetta to Taftan. According to a Pakistani official, one of the buses was hit by a vehicle loaded with an improvised explosive device (IED), possibly a suicide attack, while the other bus was targeted with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG).
The BLA statement issued by spokesperson Ziand Baloch elaborated that the group's Majeed Brigade carried out a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) "fidai" (suicide) attack near Rakhshan Mill, completely destroying at least one bus. The BLA's Fateh Squad then "systematically killed" all personnel on board another bus.
Official response and military action
Following the attack, the Pakistan Army deployed Army Aviation helicopters to evacuate the injured to a hospital and launched drones to monitor the area.
The attack has raised tensions in the region, where the BLA has been active in its campaign for Balochistan's independence from Pakistan. The BLA has a history of targeting security personnel, including a previous brazen attack where they took over the Jaffar Express train, resulting in the deaths of 21 hostages and 33 militants.
Impact and context
The BLA, a separatist organisation, has been involved in several high-profile attacks in Balochistan. The group seeks independence from Pakistan for Balochistan, a region rich in natural resources but plagued by underdevelopment and conflict. This is the most significant attack in recent years, highlighting the challenges faced by the Pakistani government in maintaining security in the region.
Conflicting reports
While the BLA claims that 90 military personnel were killed, official sources have confirmed only seven deaths and 21 injured. The discrepancy in the reported numbers underlines the complexity and often contradictory nature of information in such incidents. As of March 16, 2025, the actual number of people killed in the attack remains unclear.
Geographical and strategic importance
Located in southwestern Pakistan, Balochistan is a strategically important region due to its proximity to Iran and Afghanistan. The province is also home to the Gwadar port, a key component of China's Belt and Road Initiative. The attack on the military convoy highlights the security challenges in the region and the potential impact on regional stability and economic projects.
Previous attacks by the BLA
The BLA has a history of carrying out attacks against Pakistani security forces. One notable incident involved seizing the Jaffar Express train, which was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. The train was stuck in a tunnel, and the terrorists demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners. The standoff resulted in the deaths of 21 hostages and 33 terrorists.
Conclusion
The attack on a Pakistani military convoy in Balochistan on March 16, 2025, resulted in a large number of casualties and increased tensions in the region. While the BLA claims that 90 military personnel were killed, official sources confirm a lower number. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan and the persistent threat posed by separatist groups such as the BLA. The Pakistani military's response, including the deployment of helicopters and drones, highlights the immediate and long-term measures being taken to address the situation.