The Majeed Brigade: A Baloch Insurgent Group Targeting Pakistan and China

The Majeed Brigade, an insurgent group operating in Balochistan, is considered a significant threat, rivaling the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) in its impact. Designated as a terror entity, the group is known for its suicide attacks and targets both the Pakistani military and Chinese nationals. Formed in 2011, the Majeed Brigade has claimed responsibility for the deaths of over 200 Pakistani military personnel over the past 14 years. The group’s origins are rooted in the death of Majeed Senior and his brother, Majeed Junior, both associated with the BLA, prompting the formation of the Brigade in their memory. Unlike the BLA, members of the Majeed Brigade are allowed to maintain contact with their families and select their own targets. The group is largely composed of suicide attackers and is estimated to have around 150 well-trained fighters, with two training camps located in Baloch areas, reportedly trained by TTP operatives. The Majeed Brigade’s operational strategy involves a three-stage attack planning process, including target selection, intelligence gathering by informers, and the execution of attacks using a variety of weaponry, including IEDs, mines, grenades, RPGs, and automatic weapons like M4 rifles and various rocket types. Furthermore, the Majeed Brigade has also targeted Chinese citizens and assets, with 14 Chinese nationals killed in attacks since 2018. The group cites China’s alleged oppression of Balochis through its private army in Gwadar and its involvement in the Road and Belt project as justifications for these attacks.