A major bank robbery attempt in Balochistan’s Kharan district was successfully foiled as security forces killed 12 terrorists, while a clearance operation remains underway, Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said on Thursday.
Addressing a press conference in Quetta, the chief minister stated that 15 to 20 armed men attempted to enter Kharan with the intention of looting banks and breaking ATMs. The timely response by security forces, particularly the Frontier Corps (FC), prevented large-scale damage.
Terrorists Targeted Banks and ATMs
According to the chief minister, the attackers managed to break ATMs and succeeded in fleeing with Rs 3.4 million from National Bank of Pakistan. However, their broader plan to loot multiple banks was thwarted.
He said that at three different locations, four terrorists were killed on the spot, while the total number of confirmed fatalities later rose to 12. Efforts are ongoing to track remaining fugitives.
Civilian Injured, Security Officers Wounded
One civilian sustained injuries during the incident and is currently under treatment at CMH. The chief minister also confirmed that Colonel Wadan and Major Asim were injured during the operation.
“We value the sacrifices of our security personnel,” he said, adding that the blood of security forces’ personnel would not go in vain.
“From Ideology to Bank Robbery”
CM Sarfaraz Bugti said militant violence in Balochistan has lost any ideological claim and has now degenerated into criminal activities such as bank robbery.
“Terrorists are misleading students, killing innocent passengers after stopping buses, and looting public money,” he said.
Security Situation Improved in Balochistan
Highlighting improvements in law and order, the chief minister said that in the past, highways in Balochistan used to remain closed for 7 to 10 days, whereas today no highway remains blocked even for seven minutes.
He added that the people of Kharan out rightly rejected the attackers and stood with the state.
Surrender Policy and Development Announcements
CM Bugti reiterated that the doors of the state remain open for those willing to surrender. He revealed that 900 terrorists were killed in Balochistan last year.
On development initiatives, he announced that Rs 3 billion would be allocated to provide fibre-optic internet to all government schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals across Balochistan. An online testing system is also being introduced, and recruitment are being carried out strictly on merit.
