18 terrorists killed in Balochistan VBIED blast

During operations in Balochistan’s Surab district, security forces killed at least 18 terrorists on Wednesday, according to the military’s media wing, the ISPR. An improvised explosive device (VBIED) planted and being prepared by terrorists affiliated with Fitna Al Hindustan detonated prematurely, resulting in the deaths of eight terrorists and multiple injuries.

The ISPR added that a secondary explosion of other stored explosives also claimed the lives of three civilians. Following the blast, security forces and police launched a joint clearance operation to track down remaining terrorists. Ten more terrorists were neutralized as security forces proactively detected their movement. In total, 18 terrorists affiliated with Fitna Al Hindustan were eliminated in these incidents.

Two soldiers were injured during the exchange of fire. The ISPR emphasized that the relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the 'Azm e Istehkam' vision will continue to eliminate the threat of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from Pakistan. Last week, state media reported that security forces killed 15 terrorists in multiple intelligence-based operations across various Balochistan areas as part of Operation Raddul Fitna 3.

Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the dead terrorists, severely damaging the khawarij network and restricting their movement. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies' July 31 security assessment, Balochistan's security situation deteriorated significantly, with a 241% increase in deaths from 109 in June to 372 in July.

Security personnel deaths rose from six to 62, a 933% increase, while terrorist deaths surged from 75 to 238, and civilian deaths jumped by 93%, from 28 to 54. Eighteen peace committee members were also killed in the province.