KARACHI: (Oct 30) Pakistan’s security forces killed 18 terrorists during two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in the restive Balochistan province, the army said on Thursday.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) — the army’s media wing — the operations were carried out on Wednesday night in the Chiltan mountain range of Quetta district and in Buleda, Kech district.
“The terrorists opened fire after being engaged by security forces at their hideouts,” the ISPR said, adding that intense exchanges of fire took place before the militants were neutralised.
Security forces recovered weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the sites, which were being used as operational bases for attacks in the province. The statement said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist networks operating in southwestern Pakistan.
Balochistan, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, has long witnessed insurgent and militant violence targeting security personnel, infrastructure, and civilians. The army said it would “continue operations until the province is completely rid of terrorism.”