Security Forces Launch IBO in Balochistan’s Kharan District
Security forces killed seven militants during an intelligence-based operation in Kharan district of Balochistan, security sources said on Sunday.
The operation was carried out in the Lajay area after intelligence reports indicated the presence of militants at suspected hideouts.
According to security sources, the militants were described as members of Fitna al-Khawarij and were allegedly backed by India.
Seven militants were killed during the exchange, while several others were reportedly wounded.
Security personnel also searched the hideouts after the operation.
Weapons, ammunition and other military equipment were recovered from the locations, according to the sources.
One motorcycle and two vehicles were also found at the hideouts.
Security forces later destroyed the vehicles, the sources added.
Officials said the militants were allegedly involved in planning extortion, kidnappings, targeted killings and suicide attacks.
The operation forms part of the ongoing counterterrorism campaign under Operation Rad-ul-Fitna-3.
Weapons Recovered as Militants’ Network Targeted
Security sources said the operation was based on specific intelligence regarding militant activity in the area.
Personnel moved into the identified location and engaged the suspected militants.
Following the operation, security teams conducted clearance activities to search the area for additional suspects, weapons and explosives.
The recovery of weapons and military equipment is being examined as part of the wider investigation into the group’s activities.
Authorities are also assessing whether the militants were linked to previous attacks in Balochistan.
Security officials said operations against militant networks would continue across the province.
The latest action reflects increased counterterrorism activity in areas where armed groups have remained active.
Kharan Operation Follows Deadly Khuzdar Clash
The Kharan operation came one day after security forces reported killing 10 militants in Khuzdar district.
According to security sources, Saturday’s operation was conducted in the Shor Parod mountainous area.
The action followed intelligence about the presence of militants described by officials as belonging to an Indian-backed proxy network.
Several other militants were also reportedly wounded during the Khuzdar exchange.
The two operations highlight continuing security challenges in Balochistan.
Pakistan has experienced increased militant violence in recent years, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies identified both provinces as the main centres of violence during the second quarter of 2026.
According to the report, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan together accounted for nearly 96 percent of violence-related fatalities recorded nationwide during the quarter.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded more than 61 percent of the total deaths, with 475 fatalities.
Balochistan accounted for around 34 percent, with 265 deaths.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also recorded 151 violent incidents, representing approximately 57 percent of the national total.
Balochistan recorded 94 incidents, accounting for around 35 percent.
Security authorities say counterterrorism operations will continue against militant groups and their support networks.
Officials have maintained that intelligence-based operations remain a key part of efforts to prevent attacks and improve security in affected regions.
