Kuwait city: At least 12 "terrorists" were killed in clashes with the security forces in three different areas in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province on Friday.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Pakistan military's media wing Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that approximately 15 to 20 terrorists conducted multiple terrorist activities in Kharan City of Balochistan. The terrorists targeted the City Police Station, National Bank of Pakistan, and Habib Bank Limited.
The ISPR stated that the "terrorists" looted a significant amount from the banks during the attacks. However, the security forces effectively responded, engaging the terrorists and forcing them to retreat. In the subsequent clearance operations, 12 terrorists were killed across three different engagements. The ISPR also confirmed that plans by the terrorists to create a hostage situation at the police station were thwarted. The operations to sanitize the surrounding areas continue to ensure the elimination of any remaining threats.
The military reiterated its commitment to a relentless Counter Terrorism campaign, emphasizing that the security forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue their efforts at full pace to eradicate the threat of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.
Balochistan Chief Minister, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, highlighted the issue of terrorists misleading innocent students through social media, using them for nefarious purposes. He mentioned that a conspiracy is being hatched to lure these youths into a futile conflict. He expressed gratitude to the security forces for their sacrifices and noted that the government is taking steps to enhance the security of banks across the province.
This operation follows a day after at least 13 militants were killed in two separate engagements in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province. The country is witnessing an increase in terror attacks, particularly in the KPK and Balochistan provinces, which border Afghanistan.