Islamabad: Three personnel of the Pakistan Coast Guard were killed after armed separatist attackers targeted a patrol boat in the Arabian Sea near the Pakistan-Iran border, marking what officials described as the first known direct maritime strike on the force in the region. The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack.
The incident took place during a routine patrol in coastal waters close to the border zone. Security and police officials said militants opened fire on the vessel, killing all three personnel onboard during the sudden assault. Authorities have since increased security in the coastal belt and launched an investigation.
First Reported Sea Attack Raises Security Questions
The strike is being seen as a major shift in the insurgency pattern in Balochistan, where separatist groups have historically focused on land-based attacks against security forces, public infrastructure, and state assets.
In a statement cited by multiple reports, the BLA said its action in maritime boundaries marks a new phase of its military strategy, signalling expansion beyond ground operations.
“Following operations on land, action in maritime boundaries marks a new development,” the group said.
Gwadar Port and Coastal Security in Focus
The attack has intensified concern around the security of Gwadar Port, a strategic deep-sea port tied to the China-backed Belt and Road Initiative. Gwadar has repeatedly faced attacks in recent years and remains a high-priority security zone for Pakistan.
Jiwani, where the attack reportedly occurred, lies around 84 kilometres from Gwadar, adding to fears over coastal vulnerability.
Pakistan Points to External Safe Havens
Pakistan has previously accused groups operating from Afghanistan of supporting militant attacks inside its territory. The Taliban-led government in Kabul has denied such allegations in earlier disputes. Reports surrounding the latest attack again referenced Islamabad’s claims of cross-border sanctuaries for militant planning.
Regional Impact
The maritime strike comes at a time of rising violence in Balochistan and may force Pakistan to re-evaluate naval patrols, port security, and offshore infrastructure protection. It also adds uncertainty for foreign investments linked to regional trade routes.
