Zhob: A soldier was martyred and 15 terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob district, Balochistan, the military’s media wing reported on Tuesday.
The martyred soldier was identified as Sepoy Arifur Rehman, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The operation was launched based on intelligence reports regarding the presence of militants from the banned group, Fitnal Khawarij.
The ISPR also mentioned that a “significant amount” of weapons, ammunition, and explosives were seized from the killed militants.
“A sanitization operation was carried out in the area to eliminate any remaining militants. Security forces remain steadfast in their commitment to eradicating terrorism, and the sacrifices of these brave soldiers only strengthen our resolve,” the statement added.
Militancy has risen in Pakistan since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, with the Pakistani Taliban carrying out attacks, primarily targeting security forces. Just last week, six soldiers were martyred during a gunfight with terrorists who tried to attack a security post in the Thall district of Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The forces successfully repelled the attack.
On November 16, seven security personnel were martyred during a firefight with terrorists who attempted to assault a security post in the Shah-e-Mardan area of Kalat district, Balochistan.