MILITARY

Two Terrorists Killed, Five Arrested in Balochistan Anti-Terror Operations

Pakistan’s security forces killed two terrorists and arrested five, seizing a large cache of weapons and explosives. PM and President commend their efforts in combating terrorism.
2024-10-19
Two Terrorists Killed, Five Arrested in Balochistan Anti-Terror Operations

Two terrorists were killed, and five others apprehended during separate security operations in Balochistan’s Pishin and Zhob districts, the military's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Saturday. The operations targeted militants associated with Fitna al Khawarij, the term now officially used to refer to members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has been involved in numerous terrorist attacks across the country.

 

The operations, conducted by Pakistan’s security forces, were part of a larger effort to dismantle terrorist networks operating in the region. According to the ISPR press release, an intelligence-based operation was carried out in Pishin on Friday based on reports of militants’ presence in the area.

 

During this operation, five militants, referred to as khawarij (outcasts), were apprehended. The forces also seized a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives, including three suicide vests. The ISPR highlighted that the detained militants were involved in multiple terrorist attacks and were actively planning further attacks targeting both security forces and innocent civilians.

 

In a separate incident in the Zhob district, two militants were killed in an intense exchange of fire with the security forces. Following the encounter, a large quantity of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the area. The ISPR reiterated that the security forces remain committed to eliminating terrorism and safeguarding civilians from this persistent threat.

 

This recent success underscores the ongoing efforts of the Pakistani military and law enforcement agencies to maintain stability in regions like Balochistan, which have witnessed a surge in terrorist activity. The operations come at a time when the country is facing an escalation in attacks against its security forces, particularly after the TTP ended a ceasefire agreement with the government in 2022.

 

PM and President Hail Security Forces’ Efforts

Following the announcement of the successful operations, both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security forces for their professionalism and dedication. In separate statements, they expressed appreciation for the ongoing operations aimed at eradicating terrorism from Pakistan.

 

President Zardari reiterated the nation’s commitment to continuing the fight against terrorism, stating, “The entire nation stands with the security forces in the war against terrorism.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of national unity in foiling the designs of the country’s enemies.

 

In recent months, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have seen an alarming rise in attacks on security personnel, checkpoints, and other law enforcement agencies. This uptick in violence began after the collapse of the fragile ceasefire agreement between the TTP and the government, with the militant group vowing to target security forces.

 

The violence has taken a heavy toll. Last week, 21 miners were brutally killed in an attack by armed militants on a private coal mine in Balochistan’s Duki area. August alone saw a spate of deadly attacks, claiming at least 50 lives across the province.

 

As the security forces continue their operations to dismantle militant networks and restore peace, the government is working to ensure that Pakistan’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens remain a top priority.