Balochistan counter-terrorism operations expand as 33 terrorists are killed

Security forces have killed 33 terrorists in counter-terrorism operations across Balochistan since 21 September, the 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations targeted groups referred to by the authorities as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan. 

The latest actions included continued operations in Shaban, around Quetta and Ziarat, and an intelligence-based operation in Nushki.

Under Operation Shaban, security forces conducted further operations against militant hideouts on 24 September. 

ISPR said five terrorists were killed following an intense exchange of fire, taking the total number killed during the operation to 22. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered, according to the military.

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Nushki district on 25 September, security forces targeted a militant hideout. ISPR said 11 terrorists were killed following an exchange of fire.

The military said clearance operations in Shaban would continue until the threat in the area had been eliminated. 

It added that counter-terrorism operations by security forces and law-enforcement agencies would continue under the Azm-e-Istehkam framework approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for what he described as successful operations against militants in different parts of Balochistan. 

He also commended their professional capabilities and said the operations had prevented the alleged plans of the militants from being carried out.

Naqvi said the security forces were a source of pride for the nation and that the public stood alongside them in the fight against terrorism. 

He said operations would continue until the groups identified by the authorities as Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij had been completely eliminated.

Reporter: Ahmed Mansoor