Authorities in Karachi have confirmed that a terrorist killed during a counter-terrorism operation was a senior commander of the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). The operation, carried out by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), took place in Shah Latif Town on February 17.
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According to a CTD spokesperson, a fierce encounter between security forces and militants resulted in the deaths of four terrorists, while two police officers sustained injuries. The deceased militants were identified as Jaleel, Niaz, Hamdan, and Suhail Baloch, with the latter confirmed as a key BLA commander. The identity of one of the militants was still being verified at the time of the announcement.
کراچی میں مارا جانے والا دہشت گرد کالعدم بی ایل اے کا اہم کمانڈر سہیل بلوچ نکلاhttps://t.co/uAQiFXUebc pic.twitter.com/O29qfHfrJb
— Dunya News (@DunyaNews) March 17, 2026
Suhail Baloch was reportedly involved in over 50 killings of security personnel and civilians. He was also identified as the mastermind behind the assassination of Deputy Commissioner Panjgur, Zakir Baloch. CTD officials said he played a central role in planning attacks across Sindh, including sending five suicide bombers for the Jafer Express incident.
Following the operation, law enforcement agencies have launched targeted raids across Sindh to apprehend associates of the slain commander. Officials highlighted that the operation is part of a broader effort to dismantle terrorist networks operating in urban areas and prevent further attacks.
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The CTD emphasized that such operations are critical for ensuring public safety and disrupting the operational capabilities of banned groups like the BLA. The department urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and report any suspicious activities to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
This operation is seen as a significant blow to the BLA, which has been involved in multiple high-profile attacks in Sindh and Balochistan. Security forces continue to maintain heightened vigilance in the city to prevent retaliatory strikes.