Balochistan attackers' handlers based in Afghanistan, India: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: The handlers of the terrorists who carried out attacks on security forces in Panjgur and Naushki cities of Balochistan were based in Afghanistan and India, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Thursday.

According to a statement issued by the military’s media wing, the security forces carried out a clearance operation to hunt down terrorists hiding in the area after yesterday’s attacks. At least 13 militants were killed in the operations, it added.

The forces encountered and killed 5 more terrorists, bringing the number of total killings to nine in Naushki, said the ISPR.

Four soldiers embraced martyrdom including an officer while repulsing the attack, said the military’s spokesperson.

In Panjgur, the security forces’ clearance operation was underway to eliminate the fleeing terrorists, the ISPR said, adding that four terrorists have so far been killed in the area.

Meanwhile, the security forces have surrounded at least four to five terrorists in Panjgur.

During the exchange of fire, three soldiers embraced martyrdom and four others were injured in the area.

“As per the initial investigation, intelligence agencies have intercepted communications between terrorists and their handlers in Afghanistan and India,” ISPR said.

Weapons abandoned in Afghanistan used in Balochistan attacks: Sheikh Rasheed

Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad revealed today that weapons left behind in Afghanistan by the foreign troops were used in attacks on the security forces in Balochistan.

Lauding the security forces for thwarting the attacks, the interior minister said that Pakistan Army will foil all the nefarious designs of the enemies.

Banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is again in contact with its handlers in Afghanistan and India, he said, adding that the outlawed group had intensified attacks in Pakistan with the help of New Delhi.

“Matters between TTP and the government could not be settled,” he added.

Responding to a question, the interior minister said that cellular services are being suspended in Nushki immediately to avoid any untoward incident.

“We had informed the chief secretary and the concerned authorities about the [expected] attacks,” he added.

PM Imran Khan salutes security forces

Earlier today, Prime Minister Imran Khan honoured the security forces of Pakistan for foiling the terror attacks on their camps in Balochistan.

Taking to Twitter, PM Imran Khan said that the nation stands united behind the security forces of Pakistan.

"We salute our brave security forces who repulsed terrorist attacks against security forces' camps in Panjgur & Naushki, Balochistan. The nation stands united behind our security forces who continue to give great sacrifices to protect us," the premier wrote.