Pakistan’s security forces killed 15 militants during two intelligence-based operations in Balochistan, according to a statement released by the military’s media wing.
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The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the operations targeted militants linked to groups described as Indian proxies, including Fitna al Khwarij and Fitna al Hindustan.
According to the statement, the first operation took place on March 5 in Harnai District after intelligence reports indicated the presence of militants in the area. Security personnel launched an intelligence-based operation and engaged the suspected hideout.
Following an intense exchange of fire, security forces killed 12 militants at the location. The ISPR said the individuals were involved in multiple terrorist activities and were operating from a concealed position in the district.
A second intelligence-based operation was carried out in Basima District in Balochistan. Security forces tracked the movement of suspected militants and engaged them using a range of weapons.
After a brief but intense firefight, three additional militants were killed during the operation. The military said weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the militants during the raids.
The ISPR added that clearance and sanitisation operations were ongoing in both areas to ensure that no other militants remained in the vicinity. Security forces are continuing search operations as part of a broader counterterrorism campaign.
The military said the actions were part of the country’s wider effort to combat militancy under the national strategy known as Azm-e-Istehkam, which aims to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan.
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Officials reiterated that the campaign would continue with full force in coordination with law enforcement agencies across the country.
Earlier this week, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Pakistani security forces had repelled coordinated militant attacks in several areas of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing dozens of militants during the operations.