ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Army killed 15 militants during two separate intelligence-based operations in the southwestern province of Balochistan, the military said on Friday.
The media wing of the army, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said the militants were operating with alleged backing from India.
Security forces launched the first operation on March 5 in Harnai District after receiving intelligence about the presence of militants linked to a group described by authorities as Fitna al-Khawarij.
Troops targeted the militants’ hideout during the operation. A heavy exchange of fire followed, and 12 militants were killed.
Security forces conducted a second intelligence-based operation in Basmima after reports of militants linked to a group described as Fitna al-Hindustan.
Troops used multiple weapons systems during the operation. After an intense gun battle, three militants were killed.
Security forces recovered weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the dead militants. Officials said the suspects were involved in several militant attacks.
Troops have launched clearance operations in the area to eliminate any remaining militants.
The military said security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue operations under the national counterterrorism framework approved by the federal apex committee to eliminate externally backed militancy in the country.
