Security forces have killed five terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Panjgur, Balochistan, officials said.
According to security sources, intelligence was received about the movement of militants allegedly planning a terrorist attack. During the operation, five terrorists were killed, while several others sustained injuries.
A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was also recovered from the militants, security forces said. The killed terrorists were allegedly involved in robbery, extortion, kidnapping for ransom, targeted killings and attacks in Panjgur and adjoining areas.
Security forces said operations under Operation Radd-ul-Fatah III would continue to counter militant threats and restore peace and stability in the region.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for foiling what he described as the “nefarious designs” of terrorists affiliated with Fitna-al-Hindustan. In a statement, he said the successful operations against militants in Balochistan were commendable.
Naqvi said the nation remained united against terrorism and stood in solidarity with the security forces.
The latest operation comes amid a series of security actions across Balochistan. On Tuesday, more than nine terrorists were killed in intelligence-based operations in Ziarat, Harnai and Surab under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3. A day earlier, two terrorists were killed and three others injured during an operation in Killi Zaik.
According to a monthly security assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), the security situation in Balochistan deteriorated significantly in July.
The report said the overall death toll in the province rose by 241 per cent, increasing from 109 in June to 372 in July. Deaths among security personnel surged from six to 62, while militant fatalities increased from 75 to 238. Civilian deaths also rose from 28 to 54, while 18 members of peace committees were killed during the month.
