Pakistan’s security forces have killed nine more militants during the ongoing Operation Shaban in Balochistan, according to security sources.
The latest action brings the number of militants killed under Operation Shaban to 52, while 88 militants have been killed in various counterterrorism operations conducted since July 5, the sources said.
The figures and operational details have been provided by Pakistani security sources and have not been independently verified.
Joint Operation by Army, FC and Police
According to the sources, Operation Shaban was launched following the attack on the Mangi Dam police station in Ziarat.
The operation is being carried out jointly by the Pakistan Army, the Frontier Corps (FC), and the Balochistan Police.
Security officials said the latest militants were targeted through coordinated air and ground operations, adding that search and clearance activities remain underway in different parts of the province.
They stated that the operation would continue until the security forces complete their assigned objectives.
Casualties Reported in Recent Attacks
While security forces reported significant militant losses during the ongoing campaign, recent militant attacks in Balochistan have also resulted in heavy casualties.
According to security sources, 42 people, including members of the security forces and civilians, were killed in three separate attacks in the province.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the identities of all those killed.
Military Spokesperson on Ziarat Attack
Earlier this week, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that militants attacked the police checkpoint at Mangi Dam in Ziarat.
According to the military spokesperson, police personnel resisted the assault and killed 15 militants during the initial exchange of fire.
He added that nine police officers were killed while defending the post. The DG ISPR also said the attackers had taken some police personnel hostage before additional security forces reached the area.
The military has described the attackers as being backed by India, an allegation that India has consistently denied in similar cases.
Eight India-Backed Terrorists Killed in Intelligence-Based Operations in Balochistan: ISPR
Security Situation in Balochistan and KP
Pakistan has witnessed an increase in militant violence, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), in recent years.
Pakistani authorities have repeatedly stated that militant groups are using safe havens across the border to launch attacks inside Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban administration has rejected such allegations and has said it does not allow Afghan territory to be used against any country.
The differing positions have remained a point of tension between the two neighbours.
Previous Military Operations
The report also referred to Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, launched by Pakistan in response to cross-border militant attacks.
According to Pakistani authorities, the operation targeted militant hideouts across the border and resulted in the deaths of numerous militants.
The report further cited border clashes in October 2025, during which Pakistani officials said more than 200 Taliban fighters and allied militants were killed, while 23 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives.
These figures are based on statements issued by Pakistani authorities and have not been independently verified.
Counterterrorism Efforts Continue
Security officials say counterterrorism operations in Balochistan are ongoing and that intelligence-based operations will continue against militant groups operating in the province.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining security, while investigations into recent attacks and broader counterterrorism efforts remain underway.
