RAWALPINDI – Pakistani security forces killed 21 terrorists during multiple intelligence-based operations across Balochistan, the military’s media wing announced on Monday. The operations, conducted overnight from August 31 to September 1, targeted militant hideouts in Nokcha, Chagai district, and Ziarat Cross, Pishin district.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the eliminated militants belonged to Indian-sponsored proxies identified as Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij. The operations reflect an intensified counter-terrorism campaign under the national vision of Azm-e-Istehkam, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan.
Highway Ambush Foiled on Quetta-Taftan Route
On August 31, terrorists affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan attempted to disrupt civilian movement along the N-40 Quetta-Taftan Highway by establishing an illegal checkpoint for extortion. Security forces responded immediately, triggering an intense exchange of fire that left 11 terrorists dead.
A significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was recovered from the slain militants. The ISPR stated that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to protect vital national highways and prevent criminal activities targeting commuters.
Customs House Attack Repelled in Pishin
During the night of August 31 to September 1, Fitna al-Khawarij militants launched a coordinated assault aimed at breaching the Customs House in Ziarat Cross. Security forces engaged the attackers in a fierce firefight, killing 10 terrorists. Fleeing militants were also pursued and engaged, inflicting additional casualties.
The ISPR described the assault as a manifestation of a “terror-crime nexus,” orchestrated to prevent Customs officials from performing their lawful duties and to enable the continuation of smuggling and other criminal enterprises in the region.
Six Martyred in Line of Duty
The operations came at a heavy cost. Six personnel embraced martyrdom during the exchanges, including two officers and a government official from the Customs Department. The ISPR honored the fallen as “brave sons of the soil” who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
- Two military officers killed in action
- One Customs Department official martyred
- Three additional security personnel lost their lives
Sanitisation operations are continuing in surrounding areas to locate and eliminate any remaining terrorists. The military emphasized that these operations aim to ensure the safety of local residents and secure critical infrastructure, including national highways and government facilities.
The ISPR reaffirmed that security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating foreign-sponsored and foreign-supported terrorism from Pakistan. The counter-terrorism campaign under Azm-e-Istehkam will continue with full resolve, the statement concluded.
