Two terrorists killed, five held in Balochistan

RAWALPINDI: Security forces have killed two terrorists and apprehended five others in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Balochistan.

On Friday, security forces conducted a successful IBO in Pishin district after receiving reports of the presence of terrorists. During the operation, five suspects were apprehended, and a large cache of weapons, ammunition and explosives — including three suicide vests — was seized.

According to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday, the arrested individuals were involved in multiple terrorist attacks and were planning further attacks on security forces and civilians.

In another operation in Zhob district on October 17, two terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire with security forces. A large number of weapons and ammunition were also recovered during the subsequent area sanitisation.

The ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s security forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism and protecting innocent civilians from its menace.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday commended officers and soldiers of security forces on the successful operation against Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists in districts Pishin and Zhob. In a statement, the prime minster congratulated the security forces on their commendable efforts, which resulted in the arrest of five Khawarij and killing of two others.

The operation also led to the seizure of a large cache of weapons and explosive materials.

“The entire nation including myself pays tribute to the brave Pak Army soldiers and officers for purging the country of Fitna al-Khawarij.”

He said the entire nation stands united with the Pakistan armed forces in their mission to thwart the ambitions of Pakistan’s enemies, who aim to spread unrest and instability in the country.