QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has praised police and security forces for a successful operation against terrorists in the Ziarat district, saying the action demonstrated the professionalism and commitment of the province’s law enforcement agencies.
In a statement, Bugti expressed satisfaction over the clearance operation targeting terrorists identified by Pakistani authorities as members of “Fitna al-Khawarij”, a term used by the government for terrorist groups involved in attacks against the state.
He paid tribute to personnel who took part in the action and acknowledged the sacrifices of those martyred while serving in the line of duty.
“The martyrs of Balochistan Police and security forces are saluted by the entire nation. Their sacrifices will never go in vain,” Bugti said, according to a statement issued by his office.
He warned terrorist groups against challenging the authority of the state, saying Balochistan remained a strong part of Pakistan and that those involved in violence would face a decisive response.
Bugti said counterterrorism operations would continue across the province until all terrorist networks and their facilitators were eliminated.
He added that the government would not allow armed groups to establish their presence or disrupt peace and stability in Balochistan.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has faced a prolonged security challenge, with India-backed terrorist groups carrying out attacks on security personnel, infrastructure projects and civilians in recent years. Authorities have repeatedly vowed to intensify efforts to restore lasting peace in the region.
Pakistan’s military media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Wednesday said four civilians, 27 policemen and 11 security personnel had been martyred, while 54 terrorists had been killed in terrorist attacks and subsequent operations in Balochistan since July 5.
