Summary:
- Pakistani security forces neutralized three BLA terrorists involved in the killing of Panjgur deputy commissioner Zakir Baloch.
- The operation took place in Balochistan’s Mastung district, following intelligence leads, between August 18 and 19.
- The ISPR reaffirmed the military’s resolve to maintain peace and stability in Balochistan.
Pakistani security forces have successfully eliminated three members of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), who were responsible for the recent assassination of Panjgur deputy commissioner Zakir Baloch. The operation, which took place in the Mastung district of Balochistan between August 18 and 19, was a meticulously planned intelligence-based operation (IBO) that aimed to bring the terrorists to justice.
The military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), confirmed that the operation was a direct response to the heinous act, stating, “Today’s operation has avenged the heinous act and has brought the perpetrators to justice.” The exchange of fire during the operation left three terrorists injured, and ultimately neutralized, preventing further acts of terror in the region.
These militants were linked to numerous terrorist activities in Balochistan, a region that has seen increased instability in recent years. The ISPR emphasized the unwavering commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to thwart any attempts to disrupt the peace, stability, and progress of Balochistan. “Security forces of Pakistan in step with the Nation, remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan,” the statement added.
The tragic event that sparked this operation occurred on August 12, when Deputy Commissioner Zakir Baloch, along with District Chairman Malik Jan and his friend Ahmed Jan, was ambushed while traveling from Panjgur to Quetta. Armed assailants opened fire on their vehicle near the Kand Umrani area, leading to Baloch’s death and injuries to his companions. Despite swift action by rescue officials, Baloch succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
This operation in Mastung follows another recent tragedy where three Pakistani soldiers were martyred during a gun battle with terrorists attempting to infiltrate the country via the Afghanistan border near Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur. Pakistan has faced an uptick in terrorism, particularly since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Provinces bordering Afghanistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, have reported the majority of these incidents.
A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) highlighted the ongoing violence, noting that in the second quarter of this year alone, 380 people lost their lives and 220 were injured due to terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations. The report underscores the continued challenges Pakistan faces in its fight against terrorism.
