Security forces killed five “Indian-sponsored terrorists” in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khuzdar, Balochistan, earlier this week, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The operation, conducted on the night of September 14–15, targeted militants allegedly linked to Fitna al Hindustan, a group Pakistan identifies as an Indian proxy.
According to the ISPR press release issued on Wednesday, troops acted on confirmed intelligence about terrorist presence in the area. After a fierce exchange of fire, five militants were neutralised. Security forces also recovered weapons, explosives, and ammunition from the site. The ISPR stated these terrorists were involved in multiple attacks across the region.
Following the operation, a sanitisation sweep was launched to clear the area of any remaining threats. The military reiterated its firm resolve to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism and bring all perpetrators to justice. “Security forces are determined to wipe out the menace of Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country,” the statement added.
This Khuzdar operation follows a recent uptick in militant violence in Balochistan. On Monday, five soldiers, including an officer, were martyred in Kech during an IED blast. Last weekend, 31 terrorists were killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during two operations in Lakki Marwat and Bannu districts.
Earlier this month, security forces also killed four terrorists in Mastung, also linked to alleged Indian backing. The ISPR has emphasized that Pakistan sees such groups as part of a broader campaign to destabilize the country, especially in its western and southwestern regions.