At least 16 terrorists were killed in separate security and police operations across Balochistan on Wednesday, according to state media. The operations took place in Mastung, Turbat and Quetta. The reported operations involved security forces and Balochistan Police. Officials said the actions targeted armed groups and prevented attacks on security installations.
Two terrorists killed in Turbat operation
Security forces killed two terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Turbat. The operation took place in the Jausak area, Radio Pakistan reported. According to the report, the two men were affiliated with a group described by the state as Fitna al Hindustan. Security forces carried out the operation after receiving intelligence about the presence of terrorists.
The authorities have used the term Fitna al Hindustan for Balochistan-based militant groups. The government says the term reflects its allegations about India’s role in terrorism in Pakistan.
Nine terrorists killed in Mastung
Another operation took place in Mastung district. Pakistan Television reported that nine terrorists were killed during the security operation. According to the state broadcaster, the terrorists attempted to attack a security checkpost. Security forces responded to the attack and killed nine attackers. Officials also reported the recovery of heavy weapons and ammunition from the site. Three motorcycles were also recovered during the operation.
Pakistan Television said security operations would continue until the threat is eliminated.
Five terrorists killed in Quetta
Balochistan Police separately reported the killing of five terrorists in Quetta. The clash occurred in the Aghbarg area on the outskirts of the city. Police officials said the terrorists attempted to attack the Aghbarg police station early Wednesday. Police personnel stationed there responded to the attack. A heavy exchange of fire followed between police and the attackers. Saddar Senior Superintendent of Police Shafqat Janjua said five terrorists were killed. The official identified the attackers as members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. Police also seized weapons and ammunition after the encounter.
According to the police official, the attackers arrived in the area on motorcycles before targeting the station.
Security operations continue in Balochistan
The latest operations add to a series of counterterrorism actions reported in Balochistan in recent days. On Tuesday, security forces reportedly killed six terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in Saran Tangi. Nine suspected individuals were also arrested during that operation. On Monday, four more terrorists were killed in separate operations in two areas of Panjgur district. Security forces carried out those operations against members of a banned organisation.
Last week, security forces also reported killing 11 terrorists in separate operations in Panjgur and Chagai districts. The latest reports come amid continued security concerns in the province. A monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies recorded 89 terrorist attacks in Balochistan in August.
The assessment showed a seven percent increase from 83 attacks reported in July. Overall, 16 terrorists killed in separate security forces, police operations across Balochistan: state media reflects three separate operations reported in Mastung, Turbat and Quetta. Authorities have said security operations will continue against armed groups in the province. The reports were attributed to state media and local security officials.
The 16 terrorists killed in separate security forces, police operations across Balochistan: state media report highlights the continued counterterrorism activity across several districts.
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