Security Forces Eliminate 13 Terrorists in Mastung Operations

Islamabad, Pakistan Jul 25, 2026 ALN: Security forces have killed three more terrorists in an ongoing intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Khad Kocha area of Balochistan’s Mastung district, state-run Radio Pakistan reported on Saturday, citing security sources. This operation is part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism in the region, which has been plagued by violence and instability for years.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a statement commending the security forces, also confirmed the development. The security operation, conducted under an indefinite curfew, was launched after a shooting on a Karachi-bound coach coming from Quetta claimed three lives and injured five others on Wednesday. This incident underscored the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups in the area and the urgent need for decisive action by law enforcement agencies.

On Saturday, Radio Pakistan quoted security sources as saying that "Fitna al-Hindustan" has suffered further losses in the IBO, which has been dubbed Operation Al-Azm. The term "Fitna al-Hindustan" is used by the Pakistani government to refer to Balochistan-based militant groups, highlighting India's alleged involvement in fostering terrorism and destabilization across Pakistan. This narrative is often employed to rally public support for military operations against these groups.

“The number of terrorists killed so far during Operation Al-Azm has reached 13,” Radio Pakistan reported. Six of these had been killed on Thursday, and another four were eliminated a day ago. The operation reflects the government's intensified efforts to root out militant elements that threaten the security and stability of the region.

Security sources indicated that several hideouts belonging to "Fitna al-Hindustan" were destroyed during the operation. They added that weapons, ammunition, and materials used for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were also recovered. The destruction of these hideouts is critical as it disrupts the operational capabilities of these terrorist groups.

“There are also confirmed reports that several terrorists belonging to "Fitna ul Hindustan" were injured during the operation,” Radio Pakistan stated. This suggests that the operation has not only resulted in fatalities but has also inflicted significant damage on the terrorist infrastructure.

In his statement, Naqvi commended the professionalism of security forces in their counterterrorism efforts, as reported by state-run APP. He noted that security forces were conducting effective operations against terrorists across Balochistan as part of Operation Al-Azm and specifically lauded the actions in Khad Kocha. The acknowledgment of the forces' professionalism is intended to bolster public confidence in the government's commitment to ensuring security.

The interior minister stated that 13 terrorists have been "killed in operations conducted under Operation Al-Azm so far". Naqvi emphasized that operations by security forces would continue until terrorism was eliminated from Balochistan. This declaration reflects a firm stance by the government against terrorism, indicating that it will pursue aggressive measures to address the issue.

On Thursday, in addition to the six terrorists being killed, officials also claimed the arrest of female suicide bombers and several other suspects who were considered to be working as facilitators for the attackers. The capture of these individuals is significant as it may lead to the dismantling of terrorist networks and provide crucial intelligence on future plots.

The same day, District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his guard were gunned down, and another judge was among two injured when they came under attack by armed men while heading to Mastung. This attack on judicial officials highlights the broader threat that terrorism poses not only to civilians but also to state institutions, complicating the already challenging security situation in the province.

The gun attack followed security forces killing three terrorists in Mastung, where the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that two suicide bombers and their facilitator were also apprehended. Another seven terrorists were eliminated in Surab district, further illustrating the scope of the operations being conducted across Balochistan.

Amid the clearance operation in Mastung, the provincial leadership on Friday emphasized the need for a political resolution to the ongoing crisis. Speaking to political and tribal leaders, Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove reiterated the government’s commitment to dialogue and stated that the parliament remained the most effective platform for political parties to present their views, concerns, and demands. This acknowledgment of the importance of political dialogue suggests that the government recognizes the multifaceted nature of the crisis in Balochistan, which cannot be resolved solely through military means.

Security concerns have heightened in Balochistan after a spate of major terrorist attacks took place earlier this month, prompting counterterrorism operations across the province. The escalation of violence has raised alarms among both the local population and national authorities, leading to increased military presence and operations in sensitive areas.

Among the counterterrorism efforts was Operation Shaban, in which 91 terrorists were killed between July 5 and July 16, according to security sources cited by state media. This operation was part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism in the region, which has historically been a hotspot for militant activity. The cumulative toll of terrorists eliminated in operations across the province during this period reached 129, underscoring the urgency and scale of the government's response to the threat.

The situation in Balochistan remains complex, with various ethnic and political dynamics at play. The province has a long history of insurgency, and the presence of multiple militant groups complicates the security landscape. The government’s focus on military operations, while necessary for immediate security concerns, must be balanced with efforts to address the underlying grievances that fuel discontent among the local population. Failure to do so risks perpetuating a cycle of violence and instability.

In conclusion, the ongoing operations in Balochistan reflect a concerted effort by security forces to combat terrorism in a region that has faced significant challenges. While military actions may yield short-term results, long-term stability will likely require a combination of security measures and political engagement to address the root causes of unrest in the province.