ISLAMABAD: Security forces have killed 197 militants during extensive counter-terrorism operations conducted over the past three days across multiple districts of Balochistan, as authorities intensified efforts to dismantle militant networks threatening public safety and national security, security sources said on Tuesday.
According to the sources, follow-up, search, and sanitisation operations are still ongoing in several areas to eliminate remaining militant elements and prevent further attacks. The operations were launched in response to a wave of coordinated terrorist incidents targeting security installations, public infrastructure, and civilians in different parts of the province.
While defending the country and protecting innocent civilians, 22 personnel of the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps (FC), police, and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) embraced martyrdom, the sources confirmed.
The militant violence also claimed the lives of 36 civilians, including women and children, most of them belonging to Baloch communities. Security officials described the attacks as acts of brutality deliberately aimed at spreading fear and destabilising the province.
Security forces have carried out operations in Nushki, Mastung, Gwadar, Khuzdar, Washuk, Panjgur, and adjoining areas, where intelligence-based actions led to fierce encounters with armed militants. Authorities said the scale and coordination of the attacks marked one of the most serious security challenges in recent years.
Officials said the militants were operating under the banner of Fitna-al-Hindustan, a term used by security agencies to describe externally sponsored terrorist elements active in Balochistan. Investigations are underway to trace logistical support, financing channels, and cross-border linkages of the network involved.
Despite the heavy toll, security sources said no major new terrorist attack has been reported in the last 24 hours, indicating that the situation is under control, though still sensitive. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert, with enhanced security measures in place across the province.
According to sources, authorities have imposed strict security restrictions, including a province-wide ban on public gatherings under Section 144, increased checkpoints on highways, and temporary suspension of mobile and internet services in sensitive districts to prevent militant coordination.
Rail and road travel in some areas has been disrupted due to security concerns and damage caused during militant activity, while flights to and from Quetta are operating with heightened security screening.
The federal and provincial governments have reiterated that there will be no negotiations with terrorist groups, vowing to continue operations until all militant threats are eliminated. Parliament has also expressed support for decisive and coordinated action against terrorism.
Security officials said counter-terrorism operations would continue in the coming days to ensure lasting peace and stability in Balochistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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