ISLAMABAD: Security forces have killed nine more suspected militants during fresh operations in Balochistan as the ongoing Operation Shaban continues to target terrorist networks across the province, according to state media.
The latest action was carried out jointly by the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps Balochistan and the provincial police, who conducted coordinated operations in remote mountainous areas where members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), referred to by the government as Khawarij, were believed to be hiding.
According to Radio Pakistan, the latest engagements have increased the total number of militants killed in Operation Shaban and other intelligence-based operations to 88 since July 5.
Security officials said the operation would continue until every terrorist hideout in Balochistan is dismantled and all militants operating in the province are eliminated.
The large-scale operation was launched after a deadly terrorist attack on the Mangi Dam Police Station in Ziarat district at the beginning of July. During that assault, nine police personnel lost their lives while defending the installation.
Following the incident, the government and security agencies decided to intensify counterterrorism efforts by dismantling militant networks and destroying their bases across the province.
Under the strategy, the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps and Balochistan Police initiated coordinated operations aimed at eliminating outlawed militant organisations, safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, and restoring law and order in the affected areas.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps Balochistan and police for the latest success, paying tribute to the security personnel for killing nine more militants.
He commended the courage and determination of the security forces, stating that they had once again frustrated the designs of terrorist elements seeking to destabilise the country.
Naqvi said the sacrifices and achievements of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies in restoring peace to Balochistan would be remembered as a significant chapter in the nation’s history. He added that terrorism posed a grave threat to Pakistan and stressed that militant groups would be completely eradicated, leaving no safe haven for those attempting to disrupt peace.
