The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Sunday claimed it has detained 17 Pakistani soldiers, releasing 10 while giving the Pakistani government one week to arrange a prisoner swap for the remaining seven.In a purported statement attributed to the BLA’s media wing, Hakkal, spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch described the move as the “second phase of Operation Herof.”Also Read | ‘Operation Herof’: BLA launches ‘coordinated’ attacks across 12 locations in Balochistan; 92 rebels, 18 officials killedAccording to the statement, the 10 released soldiers were identified as ethnic Baloch men affiliated with local policing structures and were freed after being “warned.” The group maintained that the move reflected “ground realities” and the “broader interests” of the Baloch population.“The remaining detainees are members of regular units of the Pakistan Army. Proceedings were convened in a Baloch National Court, where the captives faced accusations ranging from involvement in actions against civilians to aiding enforced disappearances and taking part in the genocide of the Baloch people. During the hearing, the men were allowed to respond to the allegations, evidence was presented, and statements were recorded before a guilty verdict was delivered,” the statement read.Despite the reported “convictions,” the BLA stated it was granting Islamabad seven days to formally express readiness for a prisoner exchange. It asserted that should such willingness be demonstrated within that period, the seven detainees could be swapped for Baloch prisoners.The statement also accused Pakistani authorities of “failing to act” on previous exchange proposals and, in doing so, not prioritising the lives of their personnel. It added that the “court sentence” would be carried out if no tangible progress is made within a week.There was no immediate official response from the military or the government.(With ANI inputs)
