ISLAMABAD: A Pakistan Army major was martyred and three terrorists were killed during an intense exchange of fire in the Sambaza area of Zhob district, Balochistan, on Tuesday, according to the military’s media wing.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in this remote area of Balochistan.
During the operation, the troops effectively targeted the terrorists’ location, resulting in three terrorists being “sent to hell,” the ISPR reported. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered from the deceased terrorists, the statement added.
However, during the fierce exchange of fire, Major Babar Khan, 33, from Mianwali district, fought valiantly and embraced martyrdom while leading his troops from the front.
“A sanitisation operation is underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area,” the ISPR stated.
“Security forces of Pakistan, aligned with the nation, remain resolute in thwarting attempts to undermine the peace, stability, and progress of Balochistan. Such sacrifices by our brave soldiers only strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR declared.
Last week, security forces neutralised six terrorists during a gun battle in an IBO in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district, according to the military’s media wing.
Meanwhile, the ISPR reports that weapons and explosives have been seized from the possession of terrorists.
On Friday, security forces successfully eliminated four terrorists during an intelligence-led operation in North Waziristan district, as reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations in their official statement.
In a recent operation targeting suspected terrorists, a fierce gun battle ensued between the forces and the terrorists, as stated. Consequently, four terrorists, known for their involvement in multiple local terrorist activities, were fatally eliminated, as reported by ISPR.
During the operation, various weapons, ammunition, and explosives were seized from the neutralized terrorists, as mentioned. In addition, the security forces carried out a sanitization operation to eradicate any remaining terrorists in the vicinity. The local residents commended the operation and extended their unwavering support to combat terrorism, as stated.
The statement also mentioned that a sanitization operation was being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists in the area. The ISPR concluded with locals expressing their appreciation for the operation and their full support in combating terrorism.
In a separate context, two terrorists were reported killed in KP’s Khyber and Dera Ismail Khan districts the day prior. On Wednesday, two soldiers lost their lives in a fire exchange with terrorists in Lakki Marwat, with two militants being killed in retaliation.
Over the past year, Pakistan has experienced a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan, following the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan’s decision to end its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.
A security report from the Centre for Research and Security Studies revealed that Pakistan faced 97 militant attacks in February alone, resulting in 87 fatalities and 118 injuries. Notably, the report highlighted a significant increase in violence in Balochistan, while tribal districts and mainland KP witnessed a decline.
