Security forces launched an intelligence-based operation in Zehri after BLA and Fitna al-Hindustan attacks. Locals backed the action.
After a wave of deadly BLA and Fitna al-Hindustan attacks in Khuzdar’s Zehri area, residents demanded a security operation. Fourteen militants were killed in an intelligence-based action backed by locals, despite later propaganda attempts to misrepresent the mission.
Terror Incidents Shake Zehri and Khuzdar
The Khuzdar district of Balochistan, particularly the Zehri region, has witnessed a series of brutal terrorist incidents over the past few months, leaving communities in fear and mourning.
On March 2, 2025, JUI-F leaders Wadera Ghulam Sarwar and Molvi Amanullah were ambushed by unknown gunmen in the Tarsani area of Zehri. The assailants opened fire with automatic weapons, killing both leaders on the spot.
In January 2025, dozens of armed men belonging to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) attacked Zehri town. They torched a Levies station and a NADRA office, looted a private bank, and made off with more than Rs90 million from the strongroom.
A few weeks later, on March 6, a powerful explosion tore through the main bazaar of Naal town in Khuzdar district, killing five people and injuring ten others. The BLA claimed responsibility for the bombing.
On May 21, another explosion targeted a school bus near Zero Point on the National Highway in Khuzdar. The blast killed eight children and a teacher, injuring 34 others. Once again, the BLA claimed responsibility.
These repeated terror attacks created widespread panic and anger among the residents, who began demanding decisive action from the state.
Public Outcry and Demand for Action
After months of targeted killings and violent attacks, the people of Zehri urged the government and security forces to launch a full-scale operation against the militants.
Local residents reported:
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Looting and armed robberies by militants from the so-called Fitna al-Hindustan group;
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Destruction of markets and public spaces;
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Blockades of key roads and transport routes;
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Targeted killings of civilians and security personnel; and
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Open defiance of state authority.
In response, based on credible intelligence reports, security forces launched an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the mountainous region of Zehri tehsil.
During the operation, 14 terrorists linked to the Indian-backed group Fitna al-Hindustan were killed and 20 others injured in an intense gun battle. A large quantity of arms, ammunition, and communication devices was recovered.
Security officials said the militants had tried to use civilians as human shields, but forces adopted a targeted approach to ensure public safety. Local residents praised the precision and restraint shown during the operation.
Officials later confirmed that the operation was launched after locals themselves appealed for state protection — making it both legally justified and socially supported.
Propaganda and Misinformation After the Operation
Despite the operation’s success in restoring peace, certain elements began spreading propaganda and misinformation about the security action in Zehri. Officials described these allegations as politically motivated efforts to undermine stability and promote extremist narratives.
The State of Pakistan’s primary duty is to protect the lives and property of its citizens. Security operations are undertaken only when militant groups pose a direct threat to civilian life and law enforcement personnel.
Authorities emphasized that protecting civilians remains the top priority during all operations. Relief measures, medical aid, and rehabilitation programs are part of the state’s ongoing efforts to help those affected.
However, experts note that military action alone cannot eliminate terrorism. A long-term peace strategy must combine security measures with education, economic development, job creation, and local dialogue to address the root causes of extremism.
External Narratives and False Accusations
Analysts have criticized groups like the Baloch National Movement (BNM) for echoing external propaganda while ignoring the brutal realities of terrorist violence in Balochistan. Their silence over cross-border attacks originating from Afghanistan — targeting schools, markets, and civilians — exposes their selective outrage.
The Zehri operation was not a case of political vengeance but a lawful, intelligence-based response to protect citizens and restore peace. The overwhelming support of the local population underscores the operation’s legitimacy and the state’s commitment to fighting terrorism, extremism, and external interference.
