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Up to 16 paramilitary soldiers were killed and 10 injured on Monday after clashes with rebels in Balochistan. Reports suggested Baloch insurgents ambushed the FC troops while they were guarding a private coal mining venture in the Chamalang district. An army spokesperson later clarified that the three vehicle convoy was attacked on its way to Dukhi.
Baloch nationalists have waged war in the region. They are fighting for greater political autonomy and control. Balochistan, despite being rich in minerals and natural gas, is mired with poverty, sectarian violence and lack of infrastructure. Last month, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said development and negotiations were needed to establish peace and prosperity in the region.
