CTD kills key BLA commander in Karachi encounter

Authorities in Karachi have confirmed the death of a senior militant linked to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army

Authorities in Karachi have confirmed the death of a senior militant linked to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army. The operation was carried out last month by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Shah Latif Town.

The deceased was identified as Suhail Baloch, also known as Gark Baloch. Officials said he led the BLA’s “Fatah Squad” in the Bolan area. Suhail was involved in multiple attacks that killed more than 50 security personnel and civilians.

He had also participated in the killing of Panjgur Deputy Commissioner Zakir Baloch on March 12, 2024. In addition, he orchestrated the Jaffar Express train attack on March 11, 2025, sending five suicide bombers to carry out the mission.

According to the CTD, Suhail joined the Balochistan Liberation Front in 2022 before moving to the banned BLA. As a Fatah Squad commander, he was responsible for attacks on highways, looting civilians, and targeting law enforcement and infrastructure. He maintained direct contact with BLA commanders Rehman Gul, Dr. Mukhwa, and Mullah Amin.

The February 17 encounter involved CTD personnel engaging militants linked to the banned BLA. Officials said Suhail had been wanted by security forces for a long time due to his involvement in terrorism. Teams have now been formed to track down his handlers, associates, and facilitators, who will be brought to justice.

The Balochistan Liberation Army, locally known as Fitna al-Hindustan, continues to pose a serious threat to security in Pakistan. The organization targets civilians, security forces, and critical infrastructure. It is accused of operating with external support to destabilize the region.

Suhail Baloch’s death marks the fourth BLA operative killed in a series of CTD encounters in Karachi. Authorities said the operation dealt a major blow to the group’s leadership in Sindh and underscored Pakistan’s ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

Security agencies emphasized that operations against the BLA will continue until all network members are apprehended and the group is fully dismantled. They urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to maintain regional security.