ISLAMABAD: Security forces have killed 15 militants described by security sources as India-backed terrorists during multiple intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across several districts of Balochistan.
According to the sources, the operations were conducted as part of the ongoing Operation Rad-ul-Fitna-3, a counterterrorism campaign targeting militant networks operating in the province.
The operations were carried out in Mastung, Bolan, Washuk, Awaran, Sibi, Khuzdar, Harnai and Nushki, according to security officials.
Weapons and ammunition recovered
Security sources said the operations also resulted in the recovery of a large quantity of weapons and ammunition.
They claimed that the actions dealt a significant blow to militant networks operating in different parts of Balochistan. However, details regarding the exact quantity and type of weapons recovered were not immediately disclosed.
The operations are part of continued intelligence-led efforts aimed at identifying militant hideouts, disrupting their networks and preventing attacks in the province.
Interior minister praises security forces
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for the operations and the reported killing of 15 militants.
Commending the personnel for their professionalism and capabilities, Naqvi said the forces had thwarted the alleged activities of groups referred to by the government as Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij.
He described the security personnel engaged in counterterrorism operations as a source of pride for the nation and praised their courage and commitment in confronting militant threats.
Naqvi also reiterated the government’s stated commitment to eliminating militant networks from Balochistan.
Three militants killed in earlier operation
The latest development comes two days after security forces reportedly killed three militants affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan during a search and sanitisation operation in the Kambela and Asimabad areas of Mastung district.
According to security sources, 12 suspects were also detained during that operation.
Authorities have continued conducting intelligence-based operations across Balochistan as part of broader counterterrorism efforts.
Balochistan remains a major security hotspot
Pakistan has witnessed a significant rise in militant violence, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, in recent years.
According to a report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), the two provinces remained the country’s main hotspots for violence during the second quarter of 2026.
The report identified Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the most severely affected province, recording 475 violence-related deaths, accounting for more than 61% of the national total. Balochistan recorded 265 deaths, representing approximately 34%.
The two provinces together accounted for nearly 96% of all violence-related fatalities recorded across Pakistan during the quarter.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also recorded 151 violent incidents, or 57% of the nationwide total, while Balochistan reported 94 incidents, representing 35%.
The figures highlight the continuing security challenges faced by both provinces and the importance of intelligence-based operations in efforts to disrupt militant networks and prevent further attacks.
