QUETTA: Security forces have killed nine more terrorists in fresh operations under Operation Shaban in Balochistan, according to security sources cited by state media.
The latest action was carried out against terrorists linked to Fitna al-Khawarij, security sources said. The terrorists were reportedly hiding in difficult mountainous areas and remote routes.
According to the report, security forces used both air and ground operations to target militant hideouts in Balochistan.
Security sources said the total number of terrorists killed during Operation Shaban has now reached 52.
They further said that since July 5, a total of 88 terrorists have been killed in Operation Shaban and other intelligence-based operations across the province.
The sources added that Operation Shaban will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated from Balochistan.
Security forces reportedly targeted terrorists hiding in mountainous terrain and remote routes.
The operation is part of a wider counterterrorism campaign in Balochistan after a sharp increase in militant attacks in the province. Reuters earlier reported that Pakistan had said 42 security personnel were killed in Balochistan attacks during the same week.
AP also reported that Pakistani forces, supported by helicopters, were conducting operations after attacks in Balochistan, including the deadly assault on a police post near Mangi Dam.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces and said the menace of terrorism would be uprooted.
During a recent visit to Balochistan, Sharif vowed to continue counterterrorism operations after a series of deadly attacks in the province.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps and police, according to the supplied report.
He said the country’s brave forces had foiled the enemy’s nefarious designs. He added that terrorists were a burden on the country and nation, and their complete elimination was necessary.
Security sources said Operation Shaban would continue across Balochistan.
They added that terrorists would not be allowed to find shelter anywhere in the province.
The latest action comes as authorities intensify counterterrorism operations following recent attacks on security personnel and civilians in Balochistan.