33 terrorists killed in Balochistan since Sept 21

QUETTA:

Security forces on Friday eliminated 12 terrorists during two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in restive Balochistan.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces conducted an operation in Nushki district based on an intelligence report about the presence of terrorists.

"During the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorist hideout and after an intense exchange of fire, sent 11 terrorists to hell," the ISPR stated.

According to sources, forces also conducted an operation at the Mazan Band Range of Kech district on Friday, killing a terrorist as he attempted to cross into Iran.

The operation took place based on information regarding the movement of terrorists. Due to the successful operation, terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Hindustan failed to flee to Iran, security sources said. Fitna al-Hindustan is a term used to refer to separatist groups.

On Thursday, security forces busted some terrorist hideouts and, after an intense fire exchange, killed five terrorists of Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khwarij, a term used to refer to outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its affiliates.

The forces also recovered weapons, ammunition and explosives from the hideouts. "Clearance operations will continue until complete neutralisation of the threat from the area," it added.

According to the ISPR, during a "comprehensive counter terrorism operation" against "Indian backed Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan that started on September 21, the security forces have so far killed 33 terrorists.

"Relentless counter terrorism campaign under vision "Azm-e-Istehkam" will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country," the ISPR added.

Both the president and the prime minister paid tribute to the security force on successful operations.

In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari commended the bravery and professional competence of the security forces for eliminating more Indian-backed Khawarij during Operation Shaban.

"Elimination of 33 Indian-backed Khawarij and terrorists in Balochistan is a commendable achievement by the security forces," he said adding, "Recovery of weapons, ammunition, and explosives from terrorists' hideouts is proof of the security forces' effective operations."

In a statement issued by the PM Office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the professional capabilities of the security forces. "The operations of the security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue with full force until the complete elimination of terrorism," he said.

He said the complete eradication of foreign-sponsored terrorism, including Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, was the government's top priority.