Huge cache of arms recovered in Chaman sanitisation operation: ISPR

A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), were recovered during an extensive search and sanitisation operation in Balochistan’s Chaman area, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Sunday.

The intelligence-based operation (IBO), the military’s media wing said, was carried out in the general area of Rehman Kahul to clear a suspected hideout of terrorists, linked with recent terror incidents, including planting of IEDs in Chaman and surrounding areas.

As a result of continuous technical surveillance and reconnaissance of the area, a location of the terrorists was identified and security forces were employed to check it.

According to the ISPR, the Pakistan Army in step with the nation, remains determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging the peace, stability and progress of Balochistan.

Earlier this month, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir emphasised that a “handful of misguided elements" couldn’t break the resolve of the people of Balochistan and that the “armed forces are committed to peace” in the province.

“Handful of misguided elements cannot shake the resolve of the people of Balochistan and the armed forces are committed towards ensuring peace and prosperity,” the ISPR quoted the army chief as saying during a visit to Gwadar.

The army chief also appreciated the efforts of all ranks and urged them to continue working with professional commitment for the good of the people of Balochistan.

The army chief's visit to the coastal city holds importance in view of the worsening law and order situation in the province bordering Afghanistan and Iran.

On March 6, nine security personnel embraced martyrdom when a suicide bomber rammed his motorcycle carrying Balochistan Constabulary men near Sibbi.

The province has been wrecked by ethnic, sectarian, militant and separatist violence fed by a potpourri of groups.