ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces have successfully concluded Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 in Balochistan, killing 216 terrorists in a series of intelligence-based clearance operations against what the military described as Indian-sponsored terrorist elements, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.
In a statement, the military’s media wing said the days-long operation involved coordinated, swift, and intelligence-driven actions aimed at neutralizing terrorist networks attempting to disrupt peace and development by targeting innocent civilians, including women and children.
The operation was launched following a spate of coordinated terrorist attacks across Balochistan on Jan. 31, which paralyzed normal life in several parts of the province.
“As a result of these well-coordinated engagements and subsequent clearance operations, 216 terrorists have been sent to hell, significantly degrading the leadership, command-and-control structures and operational capabilities of terrorist networks,” the ISPR said.
It said Pakistan’s security forces, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services carried out the operation through meticulous planning, actionable intelligence, and seamless joint execution, responding with precision and resolve.
According to the ISPR, 36 civilians, including women and children, were martyred during the terrorist violence, while 22 personnel of the security forces and law enforcement agencies laid down their lives in defense of the country.
“Their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment reflect the highest traditions of service. The nation honors their sacrifices and stands in solidarity with the families of all martyrs,” the statement said.
Detailing the operational timeline, the ISPR said actions were initiated on Jan. 29 in Panjgur and the outskirts of Harnai district after credible intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists posing an imminent threat to local populations.
During the initial phase, security forces targeted identified terrorist hideouts, eliminating 41 terrorists linked to Indian proxy networks, the military said.
It added that subsequent aggressive responses by security forces thwarted attempts by Fitna-al-Hindustan to destabilize Balochistan, prompting a broader series of intelligence-based operations across multiple areas.
“These operations focused on dismantling sleeper cells through sustained combing and sanitization actions,” the ISPR said, adding that a large cache of foreign-origin weapons, ammunition, explosives, and equipment was recovered.
Preliminary assessments, according to the military, indicate systematic external facilitation and logistical support to extremist proxies operating in the province.
Reaffirming its resolve, the ISPR said the armed forces remain committed to combating terrorism in all its forms under the framework of the government’s National Action Plan (NAP).
“Counter-terrorism operations will continue with full determination until the complete elimination of terrorist threats,” the statement said.
The military described Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 as a reflection of Pakistan’s resolve, particularly that of the people of Balochistan, to choose peace, unity, and development over violence and extremism.
Following the Jan. 31 attacks, security forces and law enforcement agencies continued mop-up operations in Nushki district and other areas of the province. Mobile internet services remained suspended in parts of Balochistan for a fifth consecutive day on Wednesday, while train services were also halted as a security precaution.
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