RAWALPINDI: A Pakistan Army soldier lost his life, and 15 terrorists were eliminated during an intelligence-based operation in Sambaza, Zhob district, Balochistan. This was announced by the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), on Tuesday.
According to the ISPR, the operation was conducted on December 10. Security forces effectively targeted the terrorists’ hideout. A significant quantity of weapons, explosives, and ammunition was seized from the site.
In the intense gunfight, Sepoy Arif ur Rehman, a 32-year-old from Mansehra District, embraced martyrdom. He displayed great bravery during the operation.
The ISPR stated that a sanitization process is now underway in the area. This is to ensure no remaining threats from the terrorists, referred to as Khawarij, persist.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism in Balochistan and across the country. The sacrifices of soldiers strengthen the nation’s resolve to combat the threat.
The rise in violence has been alarming. A report by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) highlighted a 90% surge in incidents from July to September 2024. During this period, 722 individuals, including civilians, security personnel, and militants, lost their lives. Another 615 were injured in 328 recorded incidents.
Most of these fatalities occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. These provinces accounted for 97% of the deaths, marking the highest toll in a decade. Over 92% of the incidents involved terror attacks or counter-terrorism operations in these areas.
The total deaths from the first three quarters of 2024 have surpassed the figures for the entire year of 2023. At least 1,534 fatalities were reported this year compared to 1,523 last year.
Despite ongoing counter-terrorism campaigns, terrorist groups continue to reorganize. Most recent attacks have gone unclaimed. Experts suggest this may be a deliberate strategy by the groups.
