QUETTA: At least 19 terrorists were killed and 11 security personnel embraced martyrdom during an operation along the N-25 highway in Balochistan, according to security sources.
The operation was carried out between Jhao Cross and Kararo, where security forces targeted militants operating in the area, security sources said. Several other militants were also reported injured.
According to the reported security account, the operation targeted militants described by Pakistani authorities as belonging to “Fitna al-Hindustan.” Pakistan Today reported that the action was conducted along the N-25 highway and that the militants had allegedly been involved in extortion from passengers and local residents.
Security sources said the operation reflected the state’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens, securing major highways and responding firmly to attempts to disturb peace in Balochistan.
Eleven security personnel lost their lives during the operation, according to the same security-source reports.
The latest operation came a day after a deadly terrorist attack in Balochistan’s Ziarat district.
Nine police officers, including two station house officers, were killed after militants attacked a police post in the district, according to Dawn and AP.
AP reported that the attackers also abducted eight police officers, who were later recovered by security forces. A subsequent clearance operation ended with 15 militants killed, according to Balochistan government spokesman Shahid Rind.
Pakistani media also reported that the clearance operation was completed after the attack, with provincial authorities confirming the deaths of 15 militants and nine police personnel.
The two incidents have again highlighted serious security challenges in Balochistan, where militants have repeatedly targeted police, security forces and civilians. AP reported that the province has faced a long-running insurgency involving separatist groups as well as attacks by the Pakistani Taliban.
Authorities have said counterterrorism and intelligence-based operations will continue against militants involved in attacks on security personnel and civilians.