Eighteen terrorists affiliated with Fitna Al Hindustan were killed during two separate incidents in Balochistan on Wednesday, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The incidents took place in Surab district, where security forces and Balochistan Police later launched a joint clearance operation.
Eight Terrorists Killed in Premature Explosion
According to the ISPR press release, a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) detonated prematurely in Surab during the morning.
The terrorists were reportedly preparing the device when it exploded. As a result, eight terrorists were killed in the blast.
Several other terrorists also sustained injuries, according to the military’s media wing.
The explosion was followed by a secondary blast. The second explosion involved explosives stored at the site.
The blasts also killed three civilians living nearby, the ISPR said. Meanwhile, the incident prompted security forces and police to begin a clearance operation.
Security Forces Kill 10 More Terrorists
Following the initial explosion, security forces and Balochistan Police moved to track fleeing terrorists and their facilitators.
During the operation, security forces detected the movement of the fleeing terrorists. They subsequently engaged them, killing 10 more terrorists.
According to the ISPR, the two incidents resulted in the deaths of 18 terrorists affiliated with Fitna Al Hindustan.
Two security personnel also sustained injuries during an exchange of fire, the military’s media wing said.
Sanitisation Operation Continues
Security forces are continuing sanitisation operations in the area. The ongoing operation aims to locate and eliminate any remaining terrorists.
Authorities are also continuing efforts to track down those involved in facilitating the group.
The ISPR said security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue their counter-terrorism campaign under Azm-e-Istehkam.
The initiative was approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
According to the ISPR, the campaign aims to eliminate what it described as foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.
The latest operation comes as security forces continue counter-terrorism efforts in Balochistan. Further sanitisation activities will continue until the area is cleared of remaining threats.
