Security forces handicapped: Pakistan Defence Minister’s shock admission on Baloch violence

His remarks come amid a recent surge in violence in Balochistan, where separatist militants have carried out major attacks.

According to reports, the recent strikes resulted in the deaths of dozens of security personnel and caused extensive damage to public property.

“There is a physical handicap when it comes to guarding and patrolling such a large area,” Asif was quoted by local media as telling lawmakers.

The minister also claimed that the insurgents are equipped with sophisticated weaponry, including rifles reportedly worth Rs 20 lakh and thermal and laser systems costing between $4,000 and $5,000.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed grave concern over reports that children were among those killed and injured during a wave of violent attacks in Pakistan’s southwestern province last weekend.

“Children cannot be targets nor collateral damage, and their lives must always be protected,” UNICEF Representative in Pakistan Pernille Ironside said, offering condolences to the affected families and communities. She warned that escalating violence is spreading fear, with children and families bearing the heaviest burden.

The attacks, which occurred on January 31, were also strongly condemned by the UN Security Council. In a press statement, Council members described the incidents as “heinous and cowardly” acts of terrorism that left at least 48 people dead, including 31 civilians.

Civilian casualties reportedly included five women and three children. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility for the attacks.

A senior local official stated that security forces subsequently killed 145 members of the banned group during counter-operations.

The UN Security Council expressed its deepest sympathy to the victims’ families and to the Government and people of Pakistan, and wished the injured a full recovery.

Last year, the United States designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO)