MASTUNG, Pakistan: Pakistan’s security forces have intensified their intelligence-based counterterrorism campaign under Operation Al-Azm in Balochistan, with the number of militants killed rising to 13 following fresh operations in Mastung district, according to security sources.
The latest phase of the operation took place in the Khad Kocha area of Mastung, where security forces carried out a successful intelligence-led raid against suspected militant hideouts. Security officials said additional militants were killed during the operation, bringing the overall death toll in the ongoing campaign to 13.
According to security sources, the operation is part of a broader effort to dismantle militant networks operating in Balochistan. The intelligence-based operations are being conducted after receiving credible information regarding the presence of armed militants linked to what officials refer to as “Fitna al-Hindustan.”
During the raid, security forces reportedly destroyed several militant hideouts that were being used for planning and facilitating terrorist activities. Officials stated that these locations served as operational bases for the group and contained a significant cache of weapons and explosives.
Security sources said forces recovered a large quantity of arms, ammunition, explosives, and materials used in the manufacturing of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The recovery is being viewed as a major success, as officials believe the seized materials could have been used in future terrorist attacks targeting civilians as well as security personnel.
In addition to the militants killed, security officials reported that several other suspected militants were injured during the exchange of fire. However, the exact number of wounded militants has not yet been confirmed, and search operations are continuing in the surrounding areas to locate any suspects who may have escaped.
The security operation remains ongoing, with troops conducting extensive search-and-clearance activities across the region. Authorities are using intelligence gathered during the raids to identify additional militant hideouts and support networks operating in nearby areas.
Security officials emphasized that the operation is being carried out with careful planning to minimize risks while targeting militant infrastructure. The intelligence-driven approach aims to dismantle terrorist networks before they can execute attacks.
Balochistan has witnessed several security operations in recent years as authorities continue efforts to counter militant groups involved in attacks against civilians, law enforcement agencies, and state installations. The province’s vast and rugged terrain has often posed operational challenges, making intelligence-led missions a key component of counterterrorism efforts.
Officials stated that the destruction of militant camps and the seizure of explosives represent a significant setback for the group’s operational capabilities. Investigators are expected to examine the recovered materials to gather further intelligence regarding the group’s activities, logistics, and possible future plans.
Security sources reiterated that the objective of Operation Al-Azm is to eliminate terrorist threats and restore lasting peace in affected areas of Balochistan. They stressed that the campaign would continue until militant networks are dismantled and the security situation is fully stabilized.
“The operations will continue until terrorism is eradicated and durable peace and law and order are established across Balochistan,” security sources said, reaffirming the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Authorities have not released further operational details due to security considerations, and the situation remains under close monitoring as the operation progresses. Additional updates are expected as security forces continue their search-and-clearance activities in the region.
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