Pakistani army soldiers patrol at D Chowk near the President House as Pakistan prepares to host the United States and Iran in the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 21, 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS
A soldier was martyred when security forces killed 14 terrorists in Naal area of ​​Balochistan’s Basima district in an intelligence-based operation (IBO), foiling their plan to attack a police station and banks, the army’s media wing said on Tuesday.
A press release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said reports were received on Monday about the presence of terrorists belonging to the “Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan” in the area and added that they were reportedly planning to attack a nearby police station and banks in the area.
Last year, the federal government officially designated all terrorist groups operating in Balochistan as ‘Fitna to Hindustan’accusing India of sponsoring a proxy war through these outfits.
“On receipt of information, the security forces acted swiftly and an IBO was launched to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the movement of the terrorists was “effectively controlled and combated by their own forces in a punitive manner.”
He said that “14 Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell”, while several terrorists were injured after an intense exchange of fire.
“However, during the intense exchange of fire, a brave son of the soil, Lance Havildar Muhammad Abbass, having fought bravely, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” the ISPR said.
Four vehicles used by terrorists and improvised explosive devices were also destroyed at the site.
“Remediation operations are being carried out to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored terrorists found in the area,” the press release said.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif thanked the security forces for carrying out the IBO successfully.
The president said the timely and effective operation reflected the professionalism of state institutions and the nation’s unwavering resolve against terrorism.
Appreciating the bravery and sacrifices of the security forces, President Zardari praised them for eliminating 14 terrorists, the media wing of the Presidential Secretariat said in a press release.
The president said continued operations against anti-state elements were essential to safeguard national security and ensure peace and stability in the country.
The prime minister paid tribute to the martyred soldier.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.
He said security forces were achieving great successes in the fight against terrorism.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to completely eradicate all forms of terrorism from the country.
