Security forces kill 15 TTP, BLA terrorists in Balochistan IBOs

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s security forces killed at least 15 militants linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) during two intelligence-based operations in Balochistan, the military said on Saturday.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the first operation was carried out in Harnai District after intelligence reports indicated the presence of militants described by authorities as “Fitna al Khwarij”.

During the operation, security forces engaged the militants’ hideout and, following an intense exchange of fire, killed 12 militants allegedly backed by India, the military said.

Pakistani authorities commonly refer to TTP militants as “Fitna al Khwarij” and label BLA militants as “Fitna al Hindustan”.

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Basima, security forces tracked militants associated with the BLA and engaged them using mixed calibre weapons. After a fierce gun battle, three militants were killed, according to the ISPR.

The military said weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the slain militants, who were reportedly involved in multiple terrorist activities.

Sanitisation operations are ongoing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants, the statement added.

The military reiterated that Pakistan’s counterterrorism campaign under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam would continue with full intensity to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.

Meanwhile, the military’s ongoing operation dubbed Ghazab Lil Haq entered its ninth consecutive day on Saturday, with ground and aerial actions continuing against militants.

Security sources said the campaign had inflicted heavy losses on Afghan Taliban operatives and forced them into retreat. According to officials, 527 operatives had been killed and more than 755 injured since the operation began, while 237 check posts had also been destroyed.

Reacting to the developments, President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their successful operations in Balochistan, saying the killing of 15 militants demonstrated the professionalism and determination of the armed forces.

“Eliminating foreign-backed terrorism from the country remains our top priority,” the president said, adding that the nation stood firmly with the armed forces in defending the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the security forces, stating that significant progress was being achieved in the fight against terrorism under the Azm-e-Istehkam strategy.

“We are determined to completely eradicate terrorism from the country,” the prime minister said, reiterating the government’s resolve to defeat militancy.