At least four terrorists, reportedly sponsored by India, were eliminated during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted by security forces in Balochistan’s Kalat district, the military’s media wing announced on Sunday.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the security forces launched the operation following reports of the presence of terrorists “belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan.” “During the conduct of operation, own forces effectively engaged the terrorists’ location, and after an intense fire exchange, four Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” the ISPR stated.
Security forces also confiscated weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the deceased terrorists, who, as per ISPR, had been actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the region. “Sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area,” it added, reaffirming the security forces’ determination to eradicate the threat of Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country. The military further reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to bringing the perpetrators of terrorism to justice.
Pakistan has experienced a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in its Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan provinces, since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. In May of this year, Pakistan observed a slight increase in militant attacks, even though heightened military tensions with neighboring India did not result in a significant escalation of violence from extremist groups.
Data released by the Islamabad-based Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) indicates a 5% rise in attacks compared to April, though the overall trend suggests that militant groups largely remained contained despite the regional geopolitical climate. According to the PICSS monthly security assessment, May recorded 85 militant attacks, a marginal increase from 81 in April.
These incidents led to 113 fatalities, including 52 security forces personnel, 46 civilians, 11 militants, and four members of peace committees. The month also saw 182 individuals injured, comprising 130 civilians, 47 security personnel, four militants, and one peace committee member. While the total number of attacks saw only a modest increase, a closer examination of the figures reveals some worrying trends.
Fatalities among security personnel surged by a significant 73%, underscoring the persistent threat faced by Pakistan’s armed forces. Civilian injuries also witnessed a dramatic 145% increase, jumping from 53 in April to 130 in May, highlighting the growing impact of militant activities on the general populace. Conversely, injuries among security personnel decreased by 20%, falling from 59 to 47.
In operations initiated by security forces during the month, at least 59 militants were killed, while five security personnel lost their lives. Combining militant attacks and security operations, the overall casualty toll for May stood at 172, including 57 security personnel, 65 militants, 46 civilians, and four peace committee members
