A terrorist commander identified as Adil Shah, alias Darvesh, was killed during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Qila Saifullah district, according to state media.
The report identified the slain commander as a member of Fitna al Khwarij, a term used by the state for members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Security forces are continuing counterterrorism operations across Balochistan under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-3, the report stated. According to security sources, Adil Shah had been associated with the militant group since December 2020 and had been overseeing its financial affairs since 2024.
The report further alleged that the commander facilitated arrangements for permanent accommodation for foreign militants in Balochistan’s Zhob, Sherani and Shaban areas. He was also reportedly involved in attacks on security forces and kidnapping for ransom since 2022.
According to the report, 19 first information reports (FIRs) had been registered against the commander, while a bounty of Rs2.5 million had been announced for his arrest.
Security sources reiterated that counterterrorism operations in Balochistan would continue until all terrorists were eliminated.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti praised the security forces for the operation, describing the killing of the commander as a reflection of their professional capabilities and operational preparedness.
In a statement on X, Bugti commended the sacrifices of security personnel in the fight against terrorism. He said efforts would continue until terrorism was eradicated from Balochistan and lasting peace was established.
Balochistan has continued to face security challenges and militant attacks. On October 19, an army major was martyred and four terrorists were killed during intelligence-based operations in the province.
A day earlier, security forces killed eight militants described by authorities as India-sponsored terrorists during operations in Quetta, Nushki and Khuzdar districts.
On October 14, five terrorists were killed in an operation in Washuk, while the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed 10 terrorists in a targeted operation in Barkhan district on October 10.
Earlier operations also resulted in the deaths of militants in Awaran and Mastung districts in September. Additionally, 21 terrorists were killed in separate engagements in Nokcha, Chagai, Ziarat Cross and Pishin.
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), Pakistan recorded 225 terrorist attacks nationwide in September 2026, compared with 199 in August — an increase of 13.1 per cent and the highest monthly figure in 12 years.
The report stated that terrorism-related fatalities increased by 64 per cent, rising from 158 to 259, while injuries climbed by 33.7 per cent to 242.
Balochistan was the most affected province, accounting for 131 attacks, or 58.2 per cent of the national total.
Last week, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir reiterated that the armed forces would continue counterterrorism operations against groups described by the authorities as India-sponsored militants, pledging a forceful response.
