The separatist militant group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed it is holding seven members of Pakistan’s security forces in custody and has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Islamabad for a prisoner exchange. The warning was delivered through a statement released by Hakkal, the group’s media wing, along with a video message. According to the group, six days remain before the deadline expires. The claims, however, could not be independently verified. There has been no immediate official response from Pakistani authorities.

The BLA said the detainees were captured during what it described as the second phase of “Operation Herof”. The group claimed its fighters had detained a total of 17 Pakistani security personnel across different operational fronts. According to the statement, ten of those individuals were later released. The group said they were freed after being identified as ethnic Baloch with links to local police. It described the decision as being based on “ground realities” and local considerations.

The remaining seven detainees, the BLA alleged, belong to regular units of the Pakistan Army and are still in its custody. The group claimed the individuals were subjected to proceedings conducted by what it termed a “Baloch National Court”. During these proceedings, the detainees were reportedly accused of involvement in actions against civilians and enforced disappearances. The organisation also alleged participation in what it called actions against the Baloch population. These claims have not been independently confirmed.

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In its statement, the BLA said it believes that “even in war situations, principles, rules and mutual responsibilities exist.” It added that the fate of the detained personnel now depends on whether the Pakistani state engages in negotiations. The group warned that failure to respond within the stipulated period could result in the execution of the captives. Despite announcing convictions, the BLA said it had provided a seven-day grace window for a possible prisoner swap.

Pakistan has consistently rejected the BLA’s claims and characterisation of its presence in Balochistan. Islamabad designates the BLA as a terrorist organisation, a classification also recognised by countries including the United States and the United Kingdom. As of now, there has been no verified confirmation of the group’s claims, and the situation continues to be closely monitored.

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