9 terrorists killed, 4 law enforcers martyred in Balochistan

RAWALPINDI/ DERA MURAD JAMALI: Four law enforcers and two citizens embraced martyrdom in terror attacks in Mach and Kolpur areas in Balochistan, while nine terrorists were killed as law enforcement agencies retaliated on the night between Monday and Tuesday.

Multiple terrorists, including suicide bombers, attacked Mach and Kolpur complexes on the night between January 29 and 30, and the attack was effectively responded by law enforcement agencies, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.

It said security forces in the vicinity were immediately mobilized, and nine terrorists, including three suicide bombers, were killed and another three injured in the ensuing operation.

However, the ISPR said, during the intense exchange of fire, four members of law enforcement agencies fought gallantly and embraced martyrdom along with two innocent civilians. “The effective response by the law enforcement agencies is a testament of their unrelenting resolve in fight against terrorism.”

Pakistan’s security forces stand shoulder to shoulder with other law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and stability in the country, said the statement.

Meanwhile, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) -- an armed separatist group—claimed responsibility for the attack, said an AFP report.

Dera Murad Jamali’s correspondent of Daily Jang reported that terrorists also set fire to official installations and a local hotel in Mach and Bolan areas. Four vehicles, including police and Levies mobiles, were also torched on the Sindh-Balochistan national highway, which remained blocked causing long queues of goods trucks and other vehicles on both sides.

As rockets continue to rain in different parts of Mach and Bolan, and heavy gunfire is heard intermittently, worried residents have been confined to their homes, without electricity and internet service.