21 Militants Killed in Security Operations in Balochistan; Six Personnel Martyred
RAWALPINDI: Twenty-one militants were killed in security operations in Balochistan’s Chagai and Ziarat Cross areas of Pishin, while attacks on the Quetta-Taftan Highway and a Customs House were foiled, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
According to ISPR, during the night between August 31 and September 1, security forces conducted timely and effective operations against militants affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij.
On August 31, militants affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan established an illegal checkpoint on the N-40 Quetta-Taftan Highway allegedly to extort money from travelers and disrupt peaceful movement. Security forces responded immediately, and after an intense exchange of fire, 11 militants were killed at the site. A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from their possession.
In a separate incident during the night, militants affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij attempted to launch an organized attack on a Customs House. Security forces mounted a strong response, killing 10 militants, while further casualties were reportedly inflicted on militants who attempted to flee.
ISPR said the attack on the Customs House was evidence of a nexus between terrorism and criminal activities, with the objective of preventing customs officials from performing their legal duties and facilitating criminal activities in the area.
During the intense exchange of fire, six personnel, including two officers and a government employee of the Customs Department, were martyred while fighting the militants.
Search and sanitization operations are continuing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants and ensure the safety of local residents and national highways.
ISPR said counterterrorism operations would continue with full force and determination under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” vision approved by the Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan.
The military’s media wing said security forces and law-enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating terrorism allegedly carried out with foreign sponsorship and support from the country.
