Sindh Police have identified the fourth militant killed in the February 17 CTD operation in Shah Latif Town, Karachi, as Sohail Baloch alias “Gark,” a key commander of the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
According to CTD officials, the operation was launched based on intelligence gathered from previously arrested militants. During the raid, security forces engaged in a heavy exchange of fire, killing four terrorists linked to the BLA’s Bashir Zaib group.
Three of the militants — Jalil, Niaz, and Hamdan — were identified immediately after the operation. However, the fourth militant remained unidentified at the time and was later confirmed as Sohail Baloch following intelligence verification.
Profile of Sohail Baloch
Security sources describe Sohail Baloch as a high-value militant who was actively involved in planning and coordinating terrorist attacks.
He was previously associated with the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) and later joined the BLA in 2022, where he became part of the Al-Fateh Squad.
Officials say he played a central role in facilitating attacks, providing logistical support, and maintaining links with other militant operatives.
He was also allegedly involved in the killing of Panjgur Deputy Commissioner Zakir Baloch and other major incidents.
Details of the Karachi CTD Operation
The February 17 operation was conducted in Shah Latif Town after authorities tracked militant activity in the area. Officials said the intelligence-based raid helped prevent a potential large-scale terrorist attack.
A significant cache of weapons and explosives was recovered from the site, including five hand grenades, a sub-machine gun (SMG), detonators, electronic circuits, and approximately 350 kilograms of explosive material.
Major Blow to Militant Network
Authorities described the killing of Sohail Baloch as a significant success for law enforcement agencies.
According to security officials, he was linked to multiple attacks that resulted in the deaths of more than 50 security personnel and civilians.
His elimination is being seen as a major setback to militant networks operating in Karachi and parts of Balochistan. Officials added that the operation also helped foil a potential terror plot
