Tragedy struck in Balochistan, Pakistan as seven workers were shot dead in an attack in the Panjgur district. The region, known for attacks on out-of-province laborers by Baloch separatist groups, has seen a series of violent incidents.
What do we know about the attack?
While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, it follows a disturbing pattern of violence targeting individuals from other provinces. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) previously claimed a similar attack that resulted in the deaths of 39 people.
What is the situation in Balochistan?
Balochistan, the country’s poorest province, is plagued by separatist militants who often target security forces and immigrants from other regions. The area’s complex ethnic dynamics, with Punjabis constituting a significant portion of the population, contribute to tensions and conflicts.
Violence in Balochistan extends to Chinese investment projects aimed at linking Gwadar port to the Belt and Road initiative, with accusations of land and resource exploitation by the central government and China. Additionally, increasing Islamist attacks in border areas have added to the region’s instability.