QUETTA: Security forces and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed 13 terrorists while losing four personnel during intelligence-based operations conducted in the Panjpai, Noshar, and Pishin areas on the outskirts of Quetta on Saturday.
The operations targeted hideouts of a banned outfit following credible intelligence about terrorist presence in the region. A fierce gun battle lasting over three hours resulted in the elimination of nine terrorists in the Panjpai and Noshar areas, with additional terrorists killed in related actions in Pishin.
A CTD spokesperson confirmed that four department personnel embraced martyrdom while six others sustained injuries during the intense exchange of fire. The bodies of the nine terrorists were shifted to the Civil Hospital in Quetta, while the injured CTD personnel received immediate medical treatment at a local facility.
Large caches of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and related equipment were recovered from the terrorists’ hideouts. The recovered material included automatic rifles, hand grenades, and IED-making components, according to initial reports from the site.
Shahid Rind, aide to the Balochistan Chief Minister on media and political affairs, verified the details of the operation. He stated that security forces would maintain strict and continuous action against terrorists and their facilitators across the province.
The operation was launched after authorities received specific intelligence regarding the movement and presence of armed militants in these sensitive outskirts areas. Panjpai and Noshar lie on the periphery of Quetta, while Pishin district has seen repeated security incidents in recent years.
Balochistan has faced persistent security challenges, particularly in districts surrounding Quetta. Multiple banned organizations have maintained networks in the region, often involved in targeted attacks on security personnel and civilian infrastructure.
According to official security data, security forces have conducted over 150 intelligence-based operations in Balochistan during the current year, resulting in the neutralization of more than 80 militants across various districts. These figures reflect a sustained counter-terrorism campaign aimed at disrupting militant supply lines and hideouts.
The martyrdom of four CTD personnel brings the number of law enforcement officials killed in terrorist-related incidents in Balochistan this year to over 40. The province continues to witness complex security dynamics involving both separatist elements and cross-border militant networks.
Local administration officials said the successful recovery of significant explosive material likely prevented potential major attacks in Quetta city and surrounding areas. The operations demonstrated improved coordination between CTD and other security agencies in rapid response scenarios.
The families of the martyred CTD personnel received the bodies with full state honors. Senior officials, including provincial police leadership, visited the injured personnel at the hospital to review their condition.
Security analysts note that such operations form part of a broader strategy to clear semi-urban and rural pockets around major population centers. Quetta, as the provincial capital, remains a high-value target due to its administrative and strategic importance.
The banned outfit linked to the killed terrorists has previously claimed responsibility for several attacks on Chinese nationals working on CPEC-related projects and on Pakistani security installations. Intelligence agencies continue to monitor their attempts to regroup in southern and central Balochistan.
Market activity in Quetta remained largely normal following the operation, though temporary security checks increased at entry and exit points of the city. Residents in affected outskirts areas reported restricted movement during the active phase of the gun battle.
Provincial authorities have reiterated their commitment to zero tolerance against terrorism. The Balochistan government has allocated additional resources for intelligence gathering and rapid reaction forces in vulnerable districts.
The development comes amid ongoing regional efforts to stabilize security conditions for economic projects. Balochistan contributes significantly to Pakistan’s natural gas and mineral resources, making internal stability critical for national economic objectives.
Further investigations are underway to determine the full network of the eliminated terrorists, including possible facilitators and funding sources. Officials indicated that more details may emerge as forensic examination of recovered materials continues.
Security forces have maintained a high state of alert across Quetta and adjoining districts. Additional contingents have been deployed to prevent any retaliatory attempts by remaining elements of the banned group.
The successful operation underscores the continued pressure on terrorist infrastructure despite attempts at reorganization. Analysts suggest that consistent operations of this nature are essential to prevent larger-scale incidents in urban centers.
Future phases of such clearance operations are expected to target other identified pockets in Pishin, Killa Abdullah, and Mastung districts. The provincial government is coordinating closely with federal agencies to strengthen border management and intelligence sharing.