Tragic Shelling in Balochistan: 12 Civilians Killed by Pakistani Forces
Synopsis
In a devastating incident in Balochistan, **12 civilians**, including women and children, were killed by Pakistani military actions, igniting widespread condemnation and highlighting ongoing concerns about civilian safety amidst military operations.
Key Takeaways
12 civilians killed, including women and children.
Pakistani military conducted bombardment in Barkhan district.
Retaliation followed an attack on security personnel.
Human rights groups express deep concern over civilian safety.
Calls for government action to prevent future incidents.
Quetta, April 14 (NationPress) A tragic incident unfolded in Balochistan’s Barkhan district, where 12 civilians, including women and children, lost their lives, and three others sustained severe injuries due to Pakistani military bombardment and shelling in the region, as reported by local media on Tuesday, citing sources.
Earlier, unidentified armed individuals had attacked Pakistani forces, leading to the deaths of 12 security personnel.
In retaliation, Pakistani forces allegedly executed a massive operation in civilian areas, resulting in multiple casualties.
According to local sources, there were reports of bodies being burned inside a vehicle during the operation, although these claims remain unverified.
Tara Chand, President of the Baloch American Congress, condemned the actions of the Pakistani military on his social media platform, X, stating: “We vehemently condemn this act and believe that any military involved in harming innocent civilians should feel profound shame for such behavior.”
Previously, a young man was killed, and several women were injured in a drone strike conducted by Pakistani forces in Mastung district of Balochistan, as local media reported.
The Balochistan Post indicated that Pakistani forces targeted a residence in the Kurdgap area of Mastung with a drone, leading to the fatal injury of Abdul Samad, while women present in the home were also hurt.
Abdul was transported to Quetta for medical treatment but tragically succumbed to his injuries en route.
The injured women were also taken to Quetta for further medical attention after initial care at a local facility.
In recent days, reports have indicated that several personnel from Pakistani forces and Special Service Groups have been killed in assaults by Baloch armed groups, prompting the forces to initiate a large-scale operation.
This incident is not an isolated case; it highlights a persistent issue where civilians in Balochistan have been affected by drone strikes conducted by Pakistani forces, raising ongoing concerns.
Numerous human rights organizations, including the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, along with Baloch political entities, have expressed serious concerns regarding the targeting of civilians in these operations, urging the government to take immediate action to avert further incidents in Balochistan.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the gravity of this situation. The loss of civilian lives in military operations raises critical ethical questions about the conduct of armed forces. While security measures are crucial, the protection of civilians must be paramount. This incident underscores the need for accountability and a reassessment of military strategies in conflict zones.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Balochistan?
Pakistani military bombardment in Barkhan district resulted in the deaths of 12 civilians, including women and children, and left three others severely injured.
Who condemned the military actions?
Tara Chand, President of the Baloch American Congress, condemned the actions on social media, emphasizing the shameful nature of harming innocent civilians.
Are drone strikes common in Balochistan?
Yes, drone strikes by Pakistani forces have previously targeted civilians, raising serious concerns among human rights organizations.
What has been the response from human rights organizations?
Organizations such as the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan have voiced grave concerns about civilian casualties and called for immediate government action.
What sparked the military operation?
The operation was reportedly a response to an earlier attack by unidentified armed men on Pakistani forces, resulting in the deaths of 12 security personnel.
