Major Security Operations Target Terrorists in Pakistan
Security forces in Pakistan have conducted several intelligence-led operations across the country, resulting in the killing of 17 terrorists. These operations took place in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reporting the outcomes.
In the Malakand district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, a joint operation was carried out from July 16 to 20. According to the ISPR, nine India-backed terrorists were killed, while eight others were apprehended. The operation involved coordination between security forces, the Police, Levies, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and the District Administration. The operation targeted individuals affiliated with the Indian proxy group Fitna al-Khwarij.
During the four-day operation, troops surrounded and engaged the terrorists’ location. After intense exchanges of fire, nine Indian-sponsored Khwarij were killed, and eight were taken into custody. Two hideouts used by militants were destroyed, and a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was recovered.
Locals in the area expressed their appreciation for the successful operation and reiterated their support for the state’s counterterrorism efforts. The ISPR stated that “sanitisation operations are ongoing to eliminate any remaining threats in the area.” The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating the menace of Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country.
Operations in Balochistan
In addition to the operations in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, security forces also targeted terrorists in Balochistan province. On Saturday night, four terrorists were killed in a counter-terrorism operation in the Pahrod area. Intelligence sources confirmed that the operation targeted operatives of a group identified as “Fitna-e-Hindustan,” which has been linked to recent attacks in the province.
Security forces launched the raid after confirming the movement of terrorists in the area. Weapons and a flag belonging to the group were seized during the raid. A clearance operation is ongoing to secure the region. Intelligence sources emphasized that “terrorists and facilitators of Fitna-e-Hindustan will be made an example,” highlighting the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
Separately, four terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation conducted in Kalat district of Balochistan on the night between July 19 and 20. According to the ISPR, the operation was launched following confirmed reports of the presence of terrorists belonging to Fitna al Hindustan. Security personnel engaged the terrorists’ hideout, and after an intense exchange of fire, four armed fighters were killed.
A cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was recovered during the raid. A sanitisation operation is still underway to clear the area of any remaining threats, the ISPR added. The military reaffirmed its resolve to eliminate Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country and vowed to bring all perpetrators of violence to justice.
Ongoing Threats and Attacks
Despite these operations, the threat from terrorist groups persists. Earlier, in Kalat district, at least three passengers were killed and seven injured after a passenger coach traveling from Karachi to Quetta came under fire near Niemurgh Cross. In another incident, terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Hindustan abducted and executed nine passengers after removing them from buses in Loralai district.
These attacks underscore the continued challenges faced by security forces in maintaining peace and stability in the region. The ISPR and intelligence sources remain vigilant, conducting regular operations to neutralize threats and ensure the safety of civilians. The military continues to emphasize its commitment to combating terrorism and safeguarding the nation from external influences.
