Forces kill five terrorists in Noshki

Police stations in Kachhi district attacked, set on fire

QUETTA:

Security forces killed five terrorists on Saturday in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Noshki, hours after two separate attacks on police stations in the Noshki and Kachhi districts of Balochistan.

According to security sources, unidentified terrorists attacked a police station in the Dhadar area of Kachhi district on Friday night.

The attackers hurled hand grenades and opened intense fire on the station, resulting in the martyrdom of a police official—Suba Khan Bajkani—at the scene. Four other personnel were also injured.

During the attack, the terrorists set multiple police vehicles parked outside the station on fire. Police responded with effective return fire, killing one attacker while the others escaped.

Police officials said the terrorists also damaged computers and other equipment at a nearby National Database Registration Authority (NADRA) office.

Armed terrorists also opened fire on a police station in Noshki, injuring a police operator, Nusrat, who sustained a bullet wound to the leg. The injured official was shifted to Mir Gul Khan Naseer Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.

Law enforcement agencies (LEAS) later launched search operations in both areas.

On Saturday, security forces received credible intelligence that terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Hindustan—a term used to refer to outlawed separatist organisations—were planning an attack and were present in a hideout on the outskirts of Noshki.

Acting on the information, a heavy contingent of security forces launched a targeted operation in the area late last night. As soon as the forces reached the location, the terrorists opened fire with modern automatic weapons.

Security personnel responded promptly, and a fierce exchange of fire continued for several hours. During the operation, five terrorists were killed.

Security forces also demolished the militants' hideout and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, including rocket launchers, bombs, explosive materials and communication equipment.

Sources added that the slain terrorists were involved in attacks on security forces and police. Following the operation, forces cordoned off the entire area and launched a large-scale search operation to eliminate any remaining militants.

Later, PM Shehbaz Sharif commended personnel of the police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) for foiling the attack in the Dhadar area.

According to a statement issued by the PM's Office Media Wing, the prime minister said the police and CTD responded promptly and effectively, eliminating several terrorists.

He praised the bravery and professionalism of Balochistan police and CTD personnel, stating that they had set a remarkable example of courage and valour. Reaffirming the government's resolve, the prime minister said Pakistan remained determined to completely eradicate terrorism from the country.