Seven security personnel martyred in Kalat attack

Reports indicate that the attack took place at the Shah Mardan checkpost in Balochistan's Kalat district.

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On Thursday, terrorists attempted to attack a security forces’ post in the general area of Shah-e-Mardan of Kalat District in Balochistan, according to the military's media wing.

Our troops fought gallantly as a result of which six terrorists were killed while four others were injured. However, during an intense exchange of fire, seven soldiers embraced martyrdom, read a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday.

It stated that a sanitisation operation is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area, adding that the security forces of Pakistan remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan, and such sacrifices of our soldiers further strengthen our resolve.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack on unarmed civilians in the Johan area of Kalat district, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives.

In a statement, the prime minister expressed his condolences, praying for the martyrs to be granted a higher status in heaven. He extended his sympathies to the grieving families affected by the tragedy.

PM Shehbaz also directed the provision of the best medical care for the injured and instructed that immediate action be taken against the culprits, ensuring they face exemplary punishment.

"The elements spreading chaos and unrest in Balochistan are enemies of the people and the province’s development," the PM said. He emphasised that such acts of violence would not deter the government’s commitment to the region’s progress and prosperity.

He reiterated the nation’s determination to thwart the malicious agendas of the country’s enemies and reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism would continue until its complete eradication from Pakistan.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the attack on the checkpost in Kalat, offering tribute to the martyred personnel. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Naqvi emphasised that the martyred personnel had attained the highest honour of martyrdom, and their sacrifices for peace would be remembered forever.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif condemned the terrorist incident in Kalat, expressing sorrow over the loss of precious lives. She extended her condolences to the grieving families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.

Moreover, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also condemned the attack, expressing his deep sorrow over the martyrdom of security personnel. He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by the forces for the peace of the country, reaffirming that their sacrifices will never be in vain.

The incident comes after a suicide bombing on November 9 at the Quetta Railway Station, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including a woman, and left more than 60 others injured.

Internet services suspended in parts of Balochistan amid security concerns

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced on Friday that mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in certain areas of Balochistan, citing public safety concerns amidst a recent surge in terrorist attacks.

The PTA statement explained that the decision followed directives from relevant authorities and was implemented to "ensure public safety given the security situation in these areas."

The temporary suspension comes as Pakistan grapples with an uptick in violent incidents, particularly affecting Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces. The PTA has yet to provide a timeline for the restoration of internet services in the affected areas.