(Web Desk) – Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and security forces carried out coordinated intelligence-based operations in Balochistan’s Quetta and Barkhan districts, killing 14 suspected militants linked to banned organizations, officials said on Wednesday.
According to authorities, a targeted raid was conducted in the Darakhshan area of Quetta after receiving actionable intelligence about the presence of armed militants. During the operation, eight suspects allegedly opened fire on law enforcement personnel, triggering a heavy exchange of gunfire. All eight militants were killed in the encounter, officials said, adding that they were affiliated with a proscribed group involved in attacks on government installations and civilians.
Security officials reported that several CTD personnel sustained injuries during the clash and were shifted to a local hospital, where their condition was described as stable. A significant cache of weapons and explosives was recovered from the militant hideout, which authorities said would help prevent potential future attacks.
In a parallel operation, security forces launched an intelligence-led raid in the Rakhni area of Barkhan district, resulting in the killing of six additional militants. Law enforcement agencies recovered arms and explosive materials from the site, which officials said were intended for planned attacks targeting police stations, customs check posts, and civilian areas.
Authorities described the operations as part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts aimed at improving security conditions and maintaining law and order in Balochistan, a province that has witnessed periodic militant activity.
Separately, in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, unidentified attackers targeted the York police station, resulting in the death of one police officer and injuries to two customs officials. Police returned fire, forcing the assailants to flee. The attackers reportedly also targeted a nearby customs check post during their escape.
Security agencies have launched a search operation in the area to track down those responsible. Officials reiterated their commitment to countering militant threats and ensuring public safety across the country.
