Baloch separatists claim 17 Pakistani soldiers detained, give Islamabad one-week for prisoner swap – Firstpost

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Sunday claimed it had detained 17 Pakistani soldiers, releasing 10 while giving the Pakistani government one week to arrange a prisoner exchange for the remaining seven.

In a statement attributed to its media wing, Hakkal, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch described the operation as the “second phase of Operation Herof.”

Released soldiers are as ethnic Baloch: BLA

The statement said the 10 released soldiers were ethnic Baloch affiliated with local policing structures and were freed after being “warned.” The group framed the release as reflecting the “ground realities” and the “broader interests” of the Baloch population.

Remaining detainees face Baloch National Court

“The remaining detainees are members of regular Pakistan Army units. Proceedings were held in a Baloch National Court, where the captives faced accusations including actions against civilians, aiding enforced disappearances, and participating in the genocide of the Baloch people,” the statement read. It added that during the hearing, the soldiers were allowed to respond, evidence was presented, and statements were recorded before a guilty verdict was issued.

One-week window for prisoner exchange

Despite the convictions, the BLA said it was giving Islamabad seven days to formally express readiness for a prisoner swap. The group asserted that if Pakistan shows willingness within this period, the seven detainees could be exchanged for Baloch prisoners.

The statement also criticised Pakistani authorities for “failing to act” on previous exchange proposals, alleging a lack of priority for the lives of their personnel. It warned that the court sentences would be carried out if no tangible progress is made within a week.

There was no immediate response from Pakistan’s military or government.