QUETTA: At least three key commanders of banned militant outfits, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), were killed in multiple intelligence-based operations across Balochistan in the last three days, security officials said.
The operations were conducted in Kech, Panjgur, and Kharan districts and are being described by authorities as a significant setback to militant networks operating in the province.
BLA Commander Saqib Marri Killed in Kech
Security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation in Kech district, killing Saqib Marri alias Sheeda, identified by officials as a key BLA field commander.
According to sources , Marri was allegedly involved in militant attacks in Duki, Harnai, Sibi, Ziarat, Kohlu, Machh, and surrounding areas. He was also accused of involvement in extortion and kidnapping-for-ransom.
Sources claimed he played a central role in coordinating militant networks and was allegedly the mastermind behind the attack on Colonel Laeeq in Ziarat Verchum. He had reportedly been wanted by law enforcement agencies for a prolonged period.
Senior BLF Commander Farooq Alias “Soro” Killed in Panjgur
In a separate operation in Panjgur, Frontier Corps (FC) troops killed Farooq alias Soro, described as a senior BLF commander and a close aide of BLF leader Dr. Allah Nazar.
Officials said Farooq was involved in planning attacks on security forces and civilians and had been under surveillance for months. Forces reportedly surrounded the location after confirming his presence, leading to an exchange of fire in which he and his associates were killed.
Authorities termed the killing a major blow to BLF operations in Panjgur and nearby areas.
BLA Commander Javed Phullai Killed in Kharan
In Kharan district, security forces killed Javed Phullai, another BLA commander allegedly involved in a high-profile bank robbery case in Kharan and other militant activities.
Security officials said he had long been active in anti-state operations and was targeted in a raid conducted in a remote area on the outskirts of the district.
Operations to Continue Across Balochistan
Security authorities said the back-to-back operations over the past three days demonstrate continued efforts to dismantle militant infrastructure in Balochistan.
Officials also warned that banned outfits have been attempting to use minors and women for support roles, adding that action against militant networks and their facilitators would continue without discrimination.
