Security forces carried out airstrikes in the Gidar area of Surab late last night, according to local sources. The raids, conducted by military aircraft, targeted what officials describe as suspected militant hideouts. However, residents and local informants claim the strikes hit populated civilian neighborhoods, resulting in multiple casualties.

While exact numbers remain unverified, hospital sources and eyewitnesses report that a significant number of individuals — including women and children — have reportedly been killed or injured in the bombardment. The death toll and injury count are expected to rise as rescue operations continue amid the rubble of damaged homes. Emergency responders have been seen rushing the wounded to nearby medical facilities, where staff are struggling to cope with the influx of patients.

The area is currently under a security cordon, and communication lines remain disrupted, making it difficult for independent verification of the events. Local elders have expressed profound grief and anger over the strikes, demanding an immediate explanation and accountability.

As of this reporting, the military's media wing has not released any official statement regarding the operation, its targets, or the reported collateral damage. Civilian authorities have also remained silent on the matter.

The Balochistan Dispatch has reached out to government officials for clarification, but no response has been received so far. Observers note that it is now imperative for the state and military establishment to formally announce their stance on the incident, clarify the operational details, and address the growing public concern over the safety of non-combatants in the region.

Protests Erupt Over Surab Operation

Relatives of those killed in the operation staged a violent protest on Wednesday, blocking the vital Quetta-Karachi National Highway.

The demonstrators placed the bodies of the deceased on the road, demanding compensation and justice from the government. The protest brought inter-provincial traffic to a complete standstill, with long queues of vehicles piling up on both sides of the highway.

Authorities attempted to negotiate with the protesters, but the sit-in continued for several hours. Security forces were deployed to the area to maintain order, while tensions remain high across various parts of Balochistan following the incident. No official statement has been issued by the government regarding the casualties so far.

This is a developing story. The Balochistan Dispatch will update as official responses and verified information become available.