Balochistan has been grappling with unrest for nearly twenty years and has recently experienced a surge in violence from ethnic Baloch rebels and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants, who frequently target security forces in the area.
As per official reports, a total of 109 terrorists have been killed since July 5, including 71 as part of Operation Shaban, which is a collaborative effort involving the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps (FC), and Balochistan Police.
Codenamed Operation Shaban, this offensive commenced on July 7 following terrorist attacks that resulted in the deaths of several security personnel earlier that week.
The operation primarily aims to eliminate terrorists in the Shaban regions of the Quetta district, following an incident on July 5 where 27 police officers lost their lives during an assault on a police post at the Mangi dam pumping station, which supplies water to Quetta and nearby areas.
In the past 24 hours, at least seven additional terrorists have been confirmed dead during the ongoing operation, bringing the total number of neutralized rebels to 71, as stated by defense officials on Sunday.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the efforts of the security forces, the FC, and the police after the elimination of the seven terrorists.
“The actions taken by the Pakistan Army, FC, and police highlight their commitment to national security. There is no room for terrorist elements in Pakistan,” he said, as reported by his ministry.
He emphasized that the nation stands united with security forces, affirming that actions against terrorism will persist.
Balochistan’s violence has largely targeted security forces, fueled by accusations from local ethnic Baloch groups and parties that the federal government has been exploiting the mineral wealth of this largely barren province.
