Gunmen in Baluchistan, Pakistan, killed at least 31 people in separate attacks. Security forces killed 12 insurgents in response. The violence is part of a long-running insurgency in the region.
Key Points
Separatist groups in Baluchistan have been staging attacks on security forces for independence from the central government.
Recent attacks have targeted non-Baluch people in an attempt to harm the province economically.
Insurgent attacks could hinder development work in Baluchistan.
Pros
Security forces were able to respond quickly to the attacks.
Efforts are being made to eliminate separatist groups responsible for the violence.