QUETTA (Web Desk) – Pakistan’s security forces have intensified counterterrorism operations in Balochistan after killing 17 suspected militants in two intelligence-based operations, dealing another blow to militant networks operating in the province.
According to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations were conducted on November 1 in Kachhi and Kharan districts following reports about the presence of militants in the areas.
The military said the operations targeted members of groups identified as Fitna Al Hindustan and Fitna Al Khawarij. An army soldier also lost his life during an exchange of fire with militants in Kharan.
The operations were aimed at preventing terrorist activities, dismantling militant hideouts and recovering weapons and ammunition.
Road blockade attempt foiled in Kachhi
In the first operation, security forces conducted an intelligence-based action in the Sanni area of Kachhi district after receiving information about the presence of armed militants.
According to the ISPR, security personnel successfully foiled an attempt by terrorists to establish a roadblock.
The military said 10 militants were killed during the engagement, preventing them from carrying out their intended activity.
Security personnel subsequently recovered weapons and ammunition from the area.
The attempted blockade was considered a serious security concern because such activities can disrupt civilian movement, restrict transportation and create opportunities for militants to target security personnel and local residents.
The successful operation prevented the suspected militants from establishing control over the targeted route.
Seven militants killed in Kharan operation
In a separate intelligence-based operation in Kharan district, security forces targeted a suspected militant hideout following information about the presence of armed individuals.
The ISPR said an intense exchange of fire took place between security personnel and militants during the operation.
Seven militants were killed, while the hideout was destroyed.
However, the engagement also resulted in the martyrdom of an army soldier identified as Sepoy Hikmat Ullah, aged 25, who belonged to Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The military paid tribute to the soldier for displaying courage and determination while confronting the militants.
His sacrifice highlighted the risks faced by security personnel involved in counterterrorism operations in areas affected by militant violence.
Security forces launch clearance operations
Following the two engagements, security forces recovered weapons and ammunition from the affected locations.
The military said sanitisation operations were continuing to identify and eliminate any remaining militants who might be present in the surrounding areas.
These clearance activities are intended to ensure that suspected militant networks cannot regroup or use the locations as operational bases.
Security forces are also expected to continue intelligence gathering and surveillance to identify individuals involved in planning and facilitating terrorist activities.
The military reiterated its commitment to maintaining security and preventing militants from carrying out attacks against civilians and security installations.
Shehbaz Sharif praises security forces
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised security forces for killing 17 militants during the operations in Kachhi and Kharan.
He commended the professionalism and determination of the personnel involved and described their achievements as an important contribution to the country’s fight against terrorism.
The prime minister also paid tribute to Sepoy Hikmat Ullah, who embraced martyrdom during the Kharan operation.
He expressed condolences to the soldier’s family and prayed for the elevation of his ranks and strength for his loved ones.
Shehbaz Sharif said security forces were achieving significant successes against terrorism under the government’s vision of Azm-e-Istehkam.
He reiterated that the government remained committed to eliminating all forms of terrorism and ensuring lasting peace across the country.
Mohsin Naqvi pays tribute to martyred soldier
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also congratulated security personnel for their successful operations against militants in Balochistan.
He praised their professional capabilities and said the elimination of 17 terrorists demonstrated the determination of security forces to counter threats to national security.
Naqvi paid special tribute to Sepoy Hikmat Ullah, describing his sacrifice as a remarkable example of courage and patriotism.
He said the sacrifices of security personnel would not go in vain and that the nation stood firmly behind those defending the country.
The interior minister further stressed that the government would continue supporting security institutions in their efforts to eliminate terrorism.
Counterterrorism efforts remain a priority
Balochistan has faced persistent security challenges involving militant attacks, targeted violence and attempts to disrupt infrastructure and public movement.
The latest operations underline the continuing importance of intelligence gathering, coordinated security actions and effective clearance operations in areas vulnerable to militant activity.
The government and military leadership have repeatedly emphasised that counterterrorism efforts will continue until militant networks are dismantled.
With sanitisation operations still under way, security forces are expected to maintain vigilance in Kachhi and Kharan to prevent further threats.
The sacrifices of personnel such as Sepoy Hikmat Ullah remain a central part of the country’s ongoing fight to restore peace and stability.
