Five militants killed, 23 abductees rescued in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, military says
QUETTA, Pakistan - Pakistan’s military said security forces killed five militants and rescued 23 abductees during an overnight operation near Kalat in southwestern Balochistan province.
According to the military’s media wing, ISPR, the operation took place on the night of Sept. 18-19 after militants allegedly established a checkpoint along the N-25 national highway, which connects Chaman with Karachi.
The military said the militants were allegedly involved in kidnappings for ransom, extortion and vehicle theft and had disrupted the movement of civilians along the highway.
Security forces responded to the militants’ presence, triggering an intense exchange of fire in which five militants were killed, ISPR said.
The military said 23 abductees were recovered from a militant hideout following the operation.
Security forces also recovered six trucks, three buses and two cars, along with weapons, ammunition and explosives, according to the statement.
ISPR described the militants as members of what it called “Fitna al-Hindustan,” and alleged that the group was sponsored by India.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of supporting militant groups operating in Balochistan.
Security forces were conducting further clearance operations in surrounding areas following the raid, according to ISPR.
The military said the operations were aimed at preventing further attacks and protecting civilians and major transport routes.
The operation comes as Pakistan continues its counterterrorism campaign under Azm-e-Istehkam, a national security framework approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
