CTD operations kill 14 terrorists in Balochistan’s Quetta, Barkhan

Eight killed in Darakhshan raid, six in second op; minister praises forces

QUETTA:

Two counter-terrorism operations by the Counter-Terrorism Department killed 14 terrorists in Balochistan on Wednesday, officials said.

According to official statements released by the CTD, the first operation took place in the suburban Darakhshan area of Quetta, where personnel targeted what authorities described as Fitna-al-Khawarij – a term used for terrorists linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan – believed to be planning multiple attacks across the region.

In the ensuing gunfight, eight terrorists were killed, and three CTD officers were injured. Officials said the wounded personnel were in stable condition.

The spokesperson said the terrorists were planning attacks on government installations and civilians in the province. A large cache of weapons, grenades and explosives was recovered from their possession.

Another intelligence-based operation was carried out in Barkhan after reports of recent terrorist activity. Security forces surrounded suspected hideouts, and when the terrorists opened fire, a counterattack killed six of them, officials said.

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Authorities added that the terrorists were involved in recent efforts to destabilise the region’s security situation. Several automatic rifles, grenades and explosives were recovered, which officials said were intended for future attacks. No casualties were reported among security forces in this operation.

Security has been tightened in both areas, with law enforcement and military personnel increasing surveillance to prevent further attacks. Investigations are underway as authorities attempt to track down remaining terrorists.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the CTD for killing eight terrorists in the operation, and prayed for the recovery of the three injured officers.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the CTD for the operations, saying, “Salute to the brave officers of CTD Balochistan for sending 8 terrorists to hell.” He also prayed for the swift recovery of the three injured officers.

In a separate statement, he commended the force for killing six terrorists affiliated with Fitna-al-Hindustan – a term authorities use for Balochistan Liberation Army terrorists – and said he was proud of the department’s professionalism and commitment to eradicating terrorist elements.

Balochistan has been facing insurgency for years, with terrorists from the banned BLA terrorist group recently launching a terror attack at several sites, leaving dozens of citizens dead.

In a counter-operation by security forces, 216 terrorists were killed, while 22 security personnel embraced martyrdom.