Security forces kill 3 terrorists in Balochistan’s Awaran operation
A large quantity of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the possession of the slain terrorists, who were identified by the state as members of Fitna al Hindustan.
The operation comes as security forces continue efforts to counter militant threats across Balochistan, where terrorist attacks have increased in recent weeks.
Interior minister praises security forces
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for what he described as a “successful operation conducted under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3”, according to state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
In a statement, Naqvi said the operation showed the capability and commitment of security personnel in dealing with security threats. He also highlighted the continued efforts of forces deployed across different parts of Balochistan.
The minister said security forces had once again disrupted terrorist plans through timely action. He added that maintaining peace in the province remained a key priority for the government and security institutions.
Naqvi further stated that the elimination of terrorists and their facilitators was a national objective. He said relevant institutions were continuing to work together to address security challenges and prevent further attacks.
Terrorist attacks increase in Balochistan
The latest operation took place amid a rise in terrorist activity across Balochistan. According to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, the province recorded 89 terrorist attacks in August, compared with 83 in July.
The figures represented a seven per cent increase in reported attacks during the month. The rise has led security forces to intensify intelligence-based and other counter-terrorism operations in several districts.
Balochistan has faced repeated attacks targeting security personnel, government facilities, highways and other locations. Recent incidents have also involved road blockades and alleged extortion attempts by militant groups.
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Recent security operations across the province
On the night of August 31 and September 1, terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan launched a coordinated attack on the Customs House near Ziarat Cross on the N-50 National Highway in Pishin district.
According to the military’s media affairs wing, security forces killed 10 terrorists during the retaliatory action. Six people, including two security officers, were also martyred during the exchange of fire.
On August 31, security forces also killed 11 terrorists belonging to Fitna al Hindustan after an intense exchange of fire in the Nokcha area of Chagai district. The militants had reportedly established an illegal checkpoint on the N-40 Quetta-Taftan highway for extortion.
On September 2, security forces killed 12 terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Kalat district. In separate operations conducted days later in Kharan and Washuk, troops killed 11 terrorists and recovered 2.9 tonnes of explosives, according to reports.
The Inter-Services Public Relations said on September 4 that 36 terrorists had been killed during multiple “high-tempo” operations in Mastung, Quetta, Kalat and Sibi districts. The operations also reportedly prevented an attack on a police station in the Bhag area of Sibi.
On Monday, security forces and the Balochistan Counter-Terrorism Department killed nine terrorists, including a key commander of a banned outfit, during two separate operations in Mastung, Pishin and Qila Abdullah districts.
