QUETTA: Mobile phone internet services were suspended in Quetta on Thursday amid law and order situation in Balochistan, police said.
The mobile internet service disruption began shortly after noon, leaving residents facing difficulties in accessing online services and communication platforms.
Police officials said the suspension was carried out due to security reasons. Authorities did not immediately provide a specific timeline for restoration of the mobile internet service.
The suspension comes as security forces continue operations against militants in different parts of Balochistan amid heightened security measures.
Eight Militants Killed in Surab Blast
On Wednesday, eight militants were killed and several others injured when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) exploded prematurely in Surab district.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), eight militants were killed and several others injured when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) exploded prematurely while they were allegedly preparing it in Surab district on August 12.
The military’s media wing said the militants were preparing the VBIED when it detonated unexpectedly, killing eight of them.
According to ISPR, the militants belonged to Fitna al-Hindustan, a term used by Pakistani authorities for the banned militant network they accuse of carrying out terrorist activities in the country.
The blast also triggered secondary explosions after other explosives stored by the militants detonated, ISPR said.
Three civilians who were in the vicinity were killed in the secondary explosions, according to the military’s statement.
Also Read: Fact Check: FAH Suicide Blast, Not Airstrike, Caused Damage Near Surab
The incident highlights the security threat posed by militant networks operating in Balochistan, where security forces have continued intelligence-based and counterterrorism operations.
Security Operations Continue in Balochistan
The latest incident follows intensified security operations in the province. Security forces have also recently reported operations along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Balochistan, including an engagement in the Sambaza area of Zhob district in which militants attempting to infiltrate Pakistan were targeted.
The security situation has prompted authorities to adopt additional precautionary measures in sensitive areas, including restrictions on telecommunications services when deemed necessary for security reasons.
The suspension of mobile internet services in Quetta is the latest such measure as authorities continue efforts to maintain law and order amid concerns over militant activity in the province.
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