The second largest naval airbase of the Pakistani Navy at Turbat, Baluchistan was attacked on Sunday night. The attack was repulsed by personnel at the base. According to the latest reports a total of five attackers have been killed. There is no news of any damages suffered at the base.
The outlawed Baluch Liberation Army took responsibility for the attack. According to a statement by the group, its Majeed Brigade of suicide bombers, staged the attack. The Baluch Liberation Army was raised over two decades back. It has displayed tenacity and survives with apparently well-developed capabilities, notwithstanding Pakistani Army’s efforts at eliminating the group.
The Baluchs have been opposed to Chinese investments in projects in Baluchistan. They have been fighting a battle to ensure the Chinese move out of Baluchistan. Among the bigger projects that China funds as part of its China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is the Gwadar Port. The port allows the Peoples Liberation Army Navy a strategic foothold in the Arabian Sea. Currently, CPEC has been facing headwinds, both in terms of financial support as also the difficulties experienced on account of Baluch opposition.
The Baluch Liberation Army has been designated as a terrorist group by the US. Off late their activities have been on the rise. The Pakistanis have raised a Special Security Division for the protection of CPEC assets. The Special Division has nine infantry battalions and three civilian wings. The total strength is close to 18,000 personnel. However, in spite of the substantial efforts, the security situation in the Baluchistan province, like the rest of the country, remains tenuous.
Pakistan is facing a rather volatile situation in its provinces. It social fabric is also under stress. The Baluchs feel deprived of gains that the Pakistani government has made by exploiting this resource rich region. The instable political situation at Islamabad, also impairs efforts at drawing the Baluchs back into the national mainstream.
Brig SK Chatterji (Retd)
