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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A terrorist attack targeted a checkpost Kalat district of Balochistan province, resulting in the martyrdom of security personnel deployed there.

A heavy contingent of security forces arrived at the scene and cordoned off the area, following the assault, Express News reported.

Reports indicate that the attack took place at the Shah Mardan checkpost in Kalat, where unknown armed assailants opened fire.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has 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 issued today, 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.

Sharif has 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 Prime Minister said. He emphasised that such acts of violence would not deter the government’s commitment to the region’s progress and prosperity.

The Prime Minister 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.

Federal 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.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also 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.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also condemned the attack on the FC checkpost, 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.

The security landscape in Balochistan has worsened in recent months.