Barkhan (Balochistan) [Pakistan], June 8: Four Baloch fighters were killed in an intense armed clash with an alleged state-backed militia in the Koh-e-Jandar area of Rakni tehsil, Barkhan district, on Friday, according to The Balochistan Post.
The confrontation lasted several hours and saw heavy weaponry used from both sides, local residents reported. The deceased fighters have been identified as:
- Mustafa Noor of Tasp, Panjgur
- Samiullah from Malai Bazaar, Turbat
- Rasaan Qadir of Dansar, Awaran
- Shahzaib from Guni, Greshag
Their bodies were later shifted to a hospital in Rakni.
As per local sources, the opposing group in the clash is believed to be a “state-backed death squad”, a term often used by residents and human rights activists to describe pro-government militias allegedly supported by Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies. Despite the severity of the conflict, Pakistani authorities have not issued any official statement on the matter.
In a separate incident, another major armed confrontation broke out in Spilinji, in Mastung district, during a military operation. The Balochistan Post reports that large contingents of Pakistani forces entered the mountainous region late Thursday night. The arrival was followed by heavy gunfire and multiple explosions, suggesting a prolonged engagement.
Eyewitnesses confirmed the movement of ambulances and reinforcements, indicating casualties on both sides, though exact numbers remain unconfirmed. No Baloch armed group has claimed responsibility for the Spilinji clash as of yet.
Balochistan continues to face rising tensions as armed nationalist groups frequently clash with state forces. These recent confrontations underscore the ongoing instability and conflict plaguing the region.