Security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna III and the broader Azm-e-Istehkam campaign, state media reported on Saturday.
According to official sources, six terrorists identified by the state as members of Fitna al-Hindustan were killed during an operation in the Gorander area of Mashkel, Balochistan.
The operation was launched after terrorists opened fire on a security check post in the area. Security personnel responded swiftly, engaged the attackers, and eliminated all six terrorists as they attempted to flee, sources said.
In a separate intelligence-based operation in South Waziristan district, security forces killed five terrorists associated with Fitna al-Khawarij, the term used by the state for members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Sources said the terrorists’ hideouts were destroyed during the operation. A significant cache of weapons and ammunition was also recovered from the militants.
Security officials reiterated their commitment to eliminating terrorism and maintaining peace across the country through ongoing counterterrorism operations under the Azm-e-Istehkam vision.
Mohsin Naqvi Praises Security Forces
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the security forces for successfully carrying out the operations in Balochistan and South Waziristan.
He praised the professionalism and courage displayed by security personnel, stating that the nation was proud of the sacrifices and achievements of its armed forces in the fight against terrorism.
“Security forces killed five terrorists in South Waziristan and six terrorists in Mashkel, Balochistan. The nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its security forces,” Naqvi said.
He added that with continued public support, Pakistan would continue its efforts to eliminate terrorism and strengthen national security.
Counterterrorism Operations Continue Across Pakistan
Pakistan has witnessed an increase in militant attacks in recent months, prompting intensified counterterrorism operations in several regions.
Last week, a blast at a joint security checkpoint near Aman Mela in Dera Ismail Khan killed 12 people and injured 35 others. The banned TTP later claimed responsibility for the attack.
On September 19, a suicide bombing and armed assault at a mosque inside Kohat Police Lines left 23 people dead, including 15 police personnel. Security forces subsequently launched a search and clearance operation in which eight terrorists were killed.
Earlier, six security personnel, including two army officers, embraced martyrdom during an exchange of fire with terrorists in Hangu district, where eight militants were also killed.
In Balochistan, security forces have continued operations following recent attacks targeting law enforcement personnel and civilians. A joint operation involving the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps and Balochistan Police remains underway in several districts as authorities intensify efforts against militant groups operating in the province.