The security forces personnel have killed eight Indian-sponsored terrorists including a would-be suicide bomber during two intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Balochistan districts of Kharan and Mastung, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday, the operations were carried out against militants belonging to Indian proxy group Fitna al-Hindustan.
The first operation was conducted on June 25 in Kharan after intelligence reports indicated the movement of a group of militants in the area. Security forces engaged the militants in what the ISPR described as a “precise and effective” operation, killing three of them while injuring several others.
A second IBO was launched on June 26 in Mastung after security agencies received information about the presence of a suspected suicide bomber.
The ISPR said security forces targeted the militants’ hideout, and after an intense exchange of fire, five suspected militants, including the alleged suicide bomber, were killed.
According to the military, weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and motorcycles were recovered from the militants during the operations.
The ISPR said a clearance operation was continuing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants allegedly backed by India.
It further added that security forces remained committed to continuing counterterrorism operations across the country in line with the National Action Plan and the government’s Azm-e-Istehkam strategy.
President, PM, interior minister commend security forces
President Asif Ali Zardari, Saturday, appreciated the security forces for successfully carrying out operations against terrorists of Fitna al-Hindustan in Balochistan.
The president said the elimination of eight terrorists in Kharan and Mastung reflected the professionalism and determination of the security forces.
He commended the officers and personnel who participated in the operations, praising their courage, professional competence and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, President Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.
President Zardari emphasized that operations should continue until terrorism, backed by external patronage, was completely eradicated from the country.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said these successful operations are a testimony to the outstanding skills, capabilities and determination of our security forces.
He said the entire nation stands resolute alongside the security forces in this war against foreign sponsored terrorism which will continue till complete elimination of the menace.
The PM reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at eliminating terrorism and ensuring the security of citizens across the country
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also lauded the security forces for conducting successful IBOs against Indian-sponsored militants in Balochistan, commending their professionalism and bravery.
In a statement, Mohsin Naqvi said the timely and effective actions of the security forces foiled the militant plans. He reaffirmed the country's support for the security forces in the war against terrorism. “The security forces foiled the malicious intentions of Indian-sponsored terrorists in Balochistan through prompt and effective action,” Mohsin Naqvi said.
He further praised the armed forces and law enforcement personnel for bringing the militants to what he termed an “exemplary end,” adding that the entire nation takes pride in the brave sons of the security forces.
The interior minister reiterated that the people of Pakistan stand firmly alongside the security forces in the fight against terrorism and expressed confidence that such operations would continue to strengthen peace and stability in the country.
Reporters Ahmad Mansoor and Awais Kiyani