BLA releases photos of two women ‘fidayeens’ behind attacks

February 2, 2026

The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has published photographs of two women it says carried out suicide ‘fidayeen’ attacks in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province, where militant assaults recently killed dozens of people including security personnel and civilians.

Identity of One Attacker

One of the women has been identified by the BLA as 24-year-old Asifa Mengal from Nushki district. According to the group’s statement, she joined its elite suicide unit, the Majeed Brigade, at age 21 and volunteered for the mission in 2024.

Second Attacker and Propaganda Footage

The BLA also released a video showing the second female attacker, named Hawa Baloch, speaking in the footage shortly before an assault. In the clip, she criticizes the Pakistani government and calls on local populations to support the Baloch cause.

Background: Deadly Coordinated Assaults

The militants’ offensive, dubbed Operation Herof Phase II, involved coordinated attacks across multiple districts including Nushki, Gwadar, Mastung and more, resulting in nearly 50 deaths, including at least 17 security forces, according to regional officials. Pakistani forces have been conducting counteroperations in response.

Security Response and Ongoing Tension

Pakistan’s military and police have mounted a major security response to the wave of militant activity. The insurgency in Balochistan has persisted for years as separatist groups like the BLA seek greater autonomy and control over local resources, often clashing with state forces.