Over 71 terrorists killed in Balochistan operations in 96 hours: ISPR

More than 71 terrorists have been killed in Balochistan operations over the past 96 hours, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Sunday. Intelligence agencies had identified hideouts of what the military described as Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan militants in the Shaban area of Quetta district. Security forces launched a counter-terrorism operation in Ziarat and surrounding areas on September 21 under Operation Shaban.

What is the latest news on the Balochistan operations?

Security forces have killed more than 71 terrorists across Balochistan in the last 96 hours, according to ISPR. Of these, 33 were killed during Operation Shaban in Ziarat and nearby areas, while separate raids in Nushki and Mand accounted for further losses. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered during the clearances, and operations are continuing.

What happened during Operation Shaban?

Security forces engaged terrorists and cleared multiple hideouts in Ziarat following intense exchanges of fire. A total of 33 terrorists were killed in the operation so far, and weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the sites. ISPR said the operation intensified over the past 72 hours, during which 23 terrorists were killed. Forces have cleared a wide area described as a threat to local communities, and clearance work continues to ensure the area is fully secured.

What other operations took place in Balochistan this week?

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Nushki district on September 25, security forces targeted a terrorist hideout and killed 11 terrorists. In Mand, forces killed six Fitna Al-Hindustan terrorists and recovered a large quantity of weapons and ammunition. ISPR described the combined operations as a significant blow to what it called Indian-backed Afghan proxies operating in the province.

What did the military say about the wider campaign?

ISPR said the counter-terrorism campaign under the Azm-e-Istehkam framework, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, would continue with full resolve. Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country, the statement said.