KARACHI – The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has achieved a significant breakthrough in the fight against militancy, identifying a terrorist killed in a recent encounter as a high-ranking commander of the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
The Operation
On February 17, CTD personnel conducted a targeted operation in Shah Latif Town, Malir, based on intelligence extracted from previously arrested suspects. During the heavy exchange of fire, four high-value targets were neutralized. While three were identified immediately, the identity of the fourth remained a mystery until forensic and intelligence investigations were completed.
Profile of the Commander
The fourth terrorist has been identified as Sohail Baloch, alias “Gurrak,” a notorious commander of the BLA’s Al-Fatah Squad. Originally associated with the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), he switched to the BLA in 2022, quickly rising to a command position. He was a primary coordinator for logistics, weaponry, and tactical planning for the “Fitna-al-Hindustan” network.
A Record of Violence
Sohail Baloch was a central figure in several high-profile terror activities. He was involved in the targeted killing of Deputy Commissioner Panjgur, Zakir Baloch, in Khuzdar and was implicated in attacks resulting in the martyrdom of over 50 security personnel and civilians. Furthermore, he reportedly dispatched five suicide bombers for the attack on the Jaffer Express and maintained direct coordination with top terror leads including Rehman Gul, Mulla Amin, and Dr. Mukhu.
Impact of the Killing
Security officials describe the death of Sohail Baloch as a “major blow” to the BLA’s operational network. Beyond his involvement in major strikes, he was also notorious for highway robberies and setting up illegal checkpoints. With this successful operation, the CTD claims to have foiled a potential large-scale terror plot intended for the metropolis.
