Fourteen suspected militants were killed during Counter-Terrorism Department operations in Quetta and Barkhan on Wednesday. The operations targeted armed suspects linked to a banned outfit amid rising security concerns. The actions underscore intensified counter-terrorism efforts in Balochistan.
In a statement, the Balochistan CTD said eight armed men were killed in an exchange of fire in Quetta’s Darakhshan area. Three CTD personnel sustained injuries during the operation. Authorities recovered weapons and ammunition from the dead suspects. Officials said the individuals were affiliated with a proscribed organization.
Read more: Six terrorists killed in CTD operation
In a separate intelligence-based operation in Barkhan, CTD officials said six militants were killed during a gun battle. All security personnel remained unharmed in that action. Officials also recovered arms and ammunition from the site. The CTD stated the suspects were involved in planning disruptive activities.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorism across the province. The latest actions come as security forces ramp up operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Authorities have reported heightened militant activity in recent weeks.
Read more: Six terrorists ‘killed in friendly fire’ during CTD operation
Earlier, security forces concluded “Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1,” killing 216 militants in days-long clearance operations, according to Inter-Services Public Relations. The crackdown followed coordinated attacks across the province on January 31. Officials said about 180 suspects were arrested and large quantities of weapons were seized during joint actions by Frontier Corps and police.