The Pakistan Army announced that 18 terrorists were killed during a major intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan, underscoring the military’s continued efforts to eliminate militant threats in the country’s southwestern province.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation targeted militants involved in attacks against security forces, sabotage of infrastructure, and violence aimed at destabilizing the region.

The Operation: A Coordinated Strike

The military said the operation was carried out after credible intelligence reports indicated the presence of terrorist hideouts in a remote area of Kech district, near the border with Iran.
Ground troops, supported by drones and aerial surveillance, surrounded the area to prevent the suspects from escaping.

In a statement, the ISPR reported:

“In a precise and coordinated action, security forces engaged the terrorists, killing 18 and recovering a large cache of weapons, ammunition, and communication equipment.”

The statement added that several improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades, and small arms were seized, preventing potential future attacks on civilians and military convoys.

Weapons and Intelligence Recovered

Security sources said the recovered weapons included AK-47 rifles, sniper guns, explosives, and tactical gear, indicating that the militants were part of a well-organized network.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the group had been planning cross-border attacks and targeting key installations in Balochistan.

The ISPR emphasized that “security forces remain determined to eliminate terrorism from every corner of Pakistan.

Background: Rising Militancy in Balochistan

Balochistan has long faced a complex mix of insurgency, terrorism, and separatist movements, with militant groups targeting infrastructure projects, including those linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The province’s rugged terrain and porous borders have made it difficult for authorities to completely root out militant networks.

Recent months have seen an uptick in violence, with multiple attacks on security forces, check posts, and convoys.
In response, the army has intensified operations under the ongoing “Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad”, aimed at neutralizing militant threats and restoring stability across Pakistan.

Official Statements and Reactions

Government officials praised the military for the successful operation, calling it a significant blow to terrorist networks operating in the region.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that Pakistan’s security forces are “sacrificing day and night to ensure the safety of every citizen.”

He added:

“These operations show that Pakistan will never tolerate terrorism in any form. Our forces will continue their mission until peace is fully restored.”

Local residents also reported a large security presence in the area following the operation, with authorities conducting thorough clearance and verification operations to ensure no further militant activity remains.

Balochistan’s Strategic Importance

Balochistan holds immense strategic importance due to its vast natural resources and the presence of Gwadar Port, a cornerstone of CPEC.
Security in the province is crucial not only for Pakistan’s internal stability but also for regional trade and energy connectivity.

Analysts note that militant activity in the region often aims to undermine national development projects and disrupt international investment confidence.

Casualties and Follow-Up Actions

According to initial reports, two Pakistani soldiers sustained injuries during the operation but were later reported to be in stable condition.
Following the engagement, troops launched a search and clearance operation across the surrounding areas to eliminate any remaining militant hideouts and collect additional intelligence.

Authorities confirmed that the identities of the killed militants are being verified, and further details will be released once the process is complete.

A Continued Commitment to Peace

The Pakistan Army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and stability across Balochistan.
The ISPR’s statement concluded with a powerful message:

“The sacrifices of our brave soldiers will not go in vain. Pakistan’s fight against terrorism will continue until the last threat is eliminated.”

Final Thought

The elimination of 18 militants marks a major success in Pakistan’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign, particularly in a region long affected by insurgent violence.
While security challenges persist, the latest operation highlights the military’s proactive approach and intelligence precision in protecting national security.

Peace in Balochistan remains central to Pakistan’s broader vision of stability and prosperity — and each successful operation brings the nation a step closer to that goal.