The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Saturday that 23 terrorists were killed in separate security operations in Balochistan.
According to the military’s media wing, 18 Frontier Corps (FC) personnel embraced martyrdom during the Mangocher operation last night when terrorists attempted to block roads in the area.
ISPR stated that this cowardly act, orchestrated by hostile forces, aimed to disrupt the province’s peace by primarily targeting innocent civilians.
In response, security forces swiftly mobilized and successfully thwarted the terrorists’ plan, eliminating 12 militants and ensuring the safety of local residents.
“However, during the operation, 18 brave soldiers fought gallantly and made the ultimate sacrifice,” the ISPR statement added.
In a follow-up operation in Harnai on Saturday, security forces killed 11 more terrorists, bringing the total to 23.
The military affirmed that cleansing operations would continue until all perpetrators and facilitators behind this heinous act are brought to justice.
The security forces reiterated their determination to counter any attempts to sabotage Balochistan’s peace, stability, and progress. “The sacrifices of our brave soldiers only strengthen our resolve,” ISPR emphasized.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the 18 martyrs and lauded the security forces’ bravery in eliminating 12 terrorists.
Both leaders condemned the attack, stating that such elements seek to destabilize Balochistan’s peace. They assured that security personnel would continue operations to eliminate these “anti-state” elements.
They also prayed for the martyrs and extended condolences to their families.
Rising Terrorism in Pakistan
This attack follows a series of anti-terror operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where 10 terrorists were killed in five operations on Friday.
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in terrorist activities since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, particularly in border provinces like KP and Balochistan.
The year 2024 proved to be the deadliest for Pakistan’s security forces in the last decade, with at least 685 personnel martyred and 444 terror attacks recorded.
According to security reports, Pakistan witnessed 2,546 fatalities and 2,267 injuries linked to terrorist attacks and counter-operations in 2024.
KP remained the worst-hit region, recording 1,616 deaths, followed by Balochistan with 782 fatalities.
The alarming rise in violence presents a major security challenge, with security forces committed to continuing decisive operations against terrorists across the country.
