Pakistan security forces foil attacks at 12 locations in Balochistan, 67 militants killed

Pakistan’s security forces successfully thwarted coordinated attacks at 12 locations across the southwestern province of Balochistan, killing 67 militants identified by officials as Fitna al-Hindustan, which they say has backing from India

The counterterrorism operation, underway since Saturday morning, is part of a broader campaign to dismantle militant networks in the province. With the latest casualties, the total number of militants eliminated over the past two days has risen to 108, including 41 killed earlier in Panjgur and the Shaban area during separate operations.

Security sources said that the militants launched simultaneous attacks late Friday night across multiple districts of the province. In response, military and police units carried out rapid counter-operations, preventing the attackers from achieving their objectives.

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, speaking to Geo News earlier, confirmed that 58 militants had been killed while 10 security personnel lost their lives defending civilians. Officials have yet to release a government statement on the updated militant toll.

“This is a success of our security forces, who eliminated 58 terrorists with minimal losses,” he said. “Our army personnel are displaying full gallantry under the leadership of the army chief, and terrorists will continue to face severe setbacks until they are completely neutralized.”

Officials said clearance operations remain ongoing at several sites, with additional casualties among the militants expected as security forces continue search and engagement missions.

Deadly attack on laborers in Gwadar

In a particularly tragic incident, 11 civilians, including five men, three women, and three children from poor laborer families, were killed in Gwadar when militants targeted unarmed workers seeking livelihood opportunities. The death toll, initially reported as five, was later verified as 11 after thorough investigation. Security forces have neutralized all terrorists involved in the attack.

The assault has provoked widespread grief and anger in Gwadar, with residents condemning the deliberate targeting of women and children, highlighting the group’s brutality.

Security forces have intensified ground operations and aerial surveillance to track fleeing militants and dismantle remaining terrorist cells in the province. Authorities further alleged that Indian media and social media platforms amplified narratives supporting Fitna al-Hindustan, which they say indicates coordination and backing for the attacks.

President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, reaffirming Pakistan’s determination to eliminate terrorism in all forms and expressing solidarity with the families of the fallen personnel.

Balochistan has seen a surge in militant violence in recent months, targeting security forces, development projects, and civilian workers. Gwadar, a strategic port city central to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has been a focal point for both economic initiatives and security challenges.

Authorities emphasized that attacks on civilians underscore militants’ intent to destabilize the region and hinder development. Security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations, ground patrols, and aerial surveillance to eliminate remaining militant hideouts. Officials confirmed that operations will continue until the affected areas are fully secured.