Over 9 terrorists killed in Balochistan IBOs: state media

Quetta, Pakistan - Security forces have carried out intelligence-based operations (IBO) in Balochistan, resulting in the killing of more than nine terrorists, according to state media. The operations took place in Ziarat, Harnai, and Surab, as part of Operation Rad-ul-Fitna 3. Among the recovered items were arms and ammunition. These latest actions add to a series of security measures being implemented in Balochistan, a province grappling with persistent security challenges.

Monday witnessed a separate IBO in the Killi Zaik area, where two terrorists were killed and three others injured. This came a day after security forces eliminated seven terrorists during an IBO in Kharan’s Lajay area. Another significant operation occurred on Saturday, during which ten terrorists were killed and numerous others were injured in the Shor Pard area of Balochistan’s Khuzdar district.

This followed the killing of at least 18 terrorists in Surab district, including eight who were killed in a premature detonation.

The military’s media affairs wing reported these incidents. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) released a monthly security assessment on July 31, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan. According to the report, the overall death toll in Balochistan surged by 241 percent in July, from 109 in June to 372 in July, representing a significant increase in fatalities.

Security personnel deaths rose from six in June to 62 in July, marking a staggering 933 percent increase. Terrorist deaths climbed from 75 to 238, while civilian deaths saw a sharp rise of 93 percent, from 28 to 54. Seventeen members of peace committees were also killed in the province.