ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations under Operation Al-Azm across Balochistan, eliminating 16 Indian-backed terrorists, destroying multiple militant hideouts and recovering weapons and explosives, according to security sources.
The latest operations were carried out in Killi Kundi Umrani, Khad Kocha and Mastung, where security forces targeted terrorists identified by Pakistani authorities as Fitna al-Hindustan, security sources said.
The operations form part of Pakistan's broader counterterrorism campaign under Operation Al-Azm, launched to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace across the country. Pakistani authorities say the campaign is focused on intelligence-led operations against terrorist organizations, including Fitna al-Hindustan, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), responsible for attacks on civilians, security personnel and critical infrastructure. Pakistan also maintains that these groups receive external backing and support, particularly from India.
Security sources said the latest phase of Operation Al-Azm inflicted heavy losses on terrorists operating in the affected areas.
"Security forces destroyed multiple terrorist hideouts and ambush positions during the operation and recovered a cache of weapons and explosive material," the sources said.
According to security sources, 16 Indian-backed terrorists have been eliminated so far during the ongoing operation in Balochistan.
"The operations will continue until terrorism is eradicated from Balochistan and durable peace and stability are restored," the sources added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's resolve to eliminate terrorism from every part of the country, stating that "lasting peace in Balochistan is indispensable for Pakistan's stability, development and prosperity."
He said the federal government, in close coordination with the provincial administration and security institutions, would continue to strengthen the state's writ and ensure the complete defeat of terrorist elements.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for the successful intelligence-based operations under Operation Al-Azm, saying the sacrifices of Pakistan's armed forces and law enforcement agencies would not go in vain.
"Operations against terrorists will continue until the complete elimination of terrorism from Balochistan," he said.
In a statement, Balochistan government reaffirmed its full support for the ongoing counterterrorism campaign, saying security forces were conducting targeted operations to protect the lives and property of citizens and to restore lasting peace.
The provincial government said it remained committed to working with federal authorities and security institutions until terrorism was completely eradicated from the province.