Pakistani security forces have eliminated four terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in the Mastung district of Balochistan, according to a statement released by the military’s media wing.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the operation was launched following credible intelligence regarding the presence of militants linked to the banned group Fitna al-Hindustan. The term is used by Pakistani authorities to refer to Balochistan-based militant organizations that it alleges receive support from India.
During the engagement, security forces effectively targeted the militants’ hideout, resulting in a fierce exchange of fire. All four terrorists were killed in the operation. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered from the site.
A clearance operation is currently underway to root out any remaining militants in the area. The ISPR reiterated Pakistan’s determination to eradicate terrorism and hold perpetrators accountable.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for their successful operation, stating on social media that Pakistan had thwarted the “nefarious designs of Indian-backed terrorists.”
This operation comes a day after security forces killed 19 militants in three separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pakistan has seen a recent surge in militant activity, particularly in its western regions, following the breakdown of a ceasefire with the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in late 2022.
