QUETTA, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Pakistani security forces have killed nine suspected militants during intelligence-based operations in several parts of Balochistan under the ongoing Radd-ul-Fitna-3 campaign, according to security sources.
The operations were carried out in Ziarat, Harnai and Surab districts following intelligence about the presence and movement of militants in the areas.
Security sources said forces launched a major intelligence-based operation in the mountainous region between Ziarat and Harnai after receiving information about a suspected militant hideout.
Troops surrounded the location and engaged those inside, killing eight suspected militants, according to the sources. The hideout was also destroyed during the operation.
A separate operation was conducted in Hajika village in Surab district, where security forces killed another suspected militant.
Security personnel also established a blockade between Dasht Katai and Hajika to track militant movement in the area. Authorities said ammunition, magazines, hand grenades, walkie-talkies, a motorcycle and other equipment were recovered following the operations.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for the operations and said their actions demonstrated Pakistan’s commitment to protecting national security. He said counterterrorism operations would continue against militant groups operating in the country.
The latest actions come amid a broader series of security operations across Balochistan. Earlier this month, the military said 12 militants were killed in two intelligence-based operations in Washuk and Mastung districts under Radd-ul-Fitna-3.
Balochistan has faced persistent militant and separatist violence, with security forces carrying out repeated intelligence-led operations across the province. Pakistan has accused India of supporting some Baloch separatist groups, an allegation New Delhi has denied.
The latest casualty and recovery figures were attributed to Pakistani security sources and had not been independently verified at the time of publication.
