Security forces killed five terrorists and recovered 23 abducted people during an operation near the N-25 highway in Balochistan’s Kalat district.
The operation was launched after terrorists allegedly established a checkpoint along the highway on the night of September 18-19 to abduct people for ransom, extort money and seize vehicles.
Security forces responded to the activity, resulting in an intense exchange of fire in which five terrorists were killed.
The abductees were recovered from a hideout near Kalat. Six trucks, three buses and two cars were also recovered from the site, along with large quantities of weapons, ammunition and explosives.
Sanitisation operations were continuing in surrounding areas to search for any remaining militants and ensure the safety of local residents and traffic along national highways.
Authorities said counter-terrorism operations would continue as part of the ongoing national security campaign, with security and law-enforcement agencies maintaining efforts to prevent militant activity and protect the public.
The latest operation comes amid increased security challenges in Balochistan, where militant attacks have risen in recent months.
The province recorded 89 terrorist attacks in August, compared with 83 in July, marking a seven per cent increase.
Security forces have conducted several operations across Balochistan in recent weeks. These have included operations in Pishin, Chagai, Kalat, Kharan, Washuk, Mastung, Quetta, Sibi, Awaran, Panjgur and Kachhi districts.
In separate operations, dozens of terrorists were killed and significant quantities of weapons and explosives were recovered. Security forces also reported thwarting attacks and disrupting attempts to block major highways for extortion and other criminal activities.
The continued operations are part of broader efforts to counter militant groups and prevent attacks on civilians, security personnel and key transport routes across the province.
