Pakistan’s security forces have killed 12 militants during two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) carried out in Washuk and Mastung districts of Balochistan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military said the operations were conducted under the ongoing “Radul Fitna” counterterrorism campaign, which targets militant groups that authorities describe as foreign-backed and involved in terrorist activities within Pakistan.
Twin Operations in Washuk and Mastung
According to the ISPR, the first operation took place in Washuk district on August 5, after security forces received intelligence regarding the movement of suspected militants in the area.
Security personnel engaged the group, and following what the military described as a precise operation, six militants were killed.
In a separate intelligence-based operation conducted in Mastung district, security forces exchanged fire with another group of militants. The ISPR said six more militants were killed during the encounter, while a suspected hideout used by the group was also destroyed.
Counterterrorism Operations Continue
The military stated that the operations form part of Pakistan’s broader counterterrorism strategy under Azm-i-Istehkam, a national initiative approved through the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
Officials said security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue conducting intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling militant networks and preventing future attacks.
Recent Operations in Balochistan
The latest operations follow several recent counterterrorism actions across Balochistan.
Last week, the ISPR announced that eight militants were killed during multiple intelligence-based operations in Nushki district, where security forces also recovered weapons, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices.
Earlier in July, authorities launched Operation Shaban after a deadly attack on a police post near the Mangi Dam pumping station in Ziarat, where 27 police personnel were abducted and killed.
More recently, security forces also initiated Operation Al-Azm following an attack on a passenger coach travelling from Quetta to Karachi, which resulted in multiple casualties.
Security Situation in Balochistan
Balochistan has witnessed an increase in militant activity in recent months.
A report released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) noted that terrorist attacks in the province rose significantly during May compared with the previous month. The report also highlighted a sharp rise in kidnapping incidents, with the majority of reported cases occurring in Balochistan.
Authorities say intelligence-based operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to improve security and respond to militant threats across the province.
