In a significant counter-operation, security forces in Balochistan neutralized 21 terrorists following a series of brutal attacks targeting civilians and security personnel, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday. The attacks, which occurred on Sunday night, claimed the lives of 14 security personnel, including 10 soldiers and four law enforcement officers, and resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians.
The ISPR highlighted that these coordinated assaults were orchestrated by “inimical and hostile forces” aiming to destabilize the region and impede the progress of Balochistan. The terrorists specifically targeted innocent civilians in Musakhel, Kalat, and Lasbela districts, with the Musakhel district witnessing the most devastating attack.
In Musakhel, terrorists intercepted a bus in the Rara Sham area, forcibly disembarking passengers and executing them after verifying their identities. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ayub Achakzai reported that 23 people, primarily from Punjab province, were killed in this massacre. The attackers also torched 35 vehicles before fleeing the scene. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attacks, although this claim has not been independently verified.
In response, security forces launched extensive clearance operations across the region, resulting in the elimination of 21 terrorists. The ISPR emphasized that the terrorists’ plans were effectively thwarted, and ongoing sanitization operations aim to bring all those involved in these heinous acts to justice.
Meanwhile, in Kalat, a separate attack led to the deaths of 10 individuals, including police officers and Balochistan Levies personnel. The attackers, who initiated the assault along the national highway, later extended their attack into the city before escaping. Injured in the incident were Kalat Assistant Commissioner Aftab Ahmed and a Levies officer, both of whom are reported to be in stable condition.
The brutal attacks drew widespread condemnation from government officials. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both denounced the atrocities, with President Zardari labeling the killings as an “attack on humanity.” Prime Minister Sharif assured that those responsible would face severe consequences, reiterating Pakistan’s resolve to eradicate terrorism.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti expressed his deep condolences to the victims’ families, vowing that the government would relentlessly pursue the perpetrators and their facilitators. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar also condemned the attacks, promising that justice would be served.
The nation stands united with its security forces in the fight against terrorism, as officials reaffirm their commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Balochistan and across Pakistan.
