Security forces killed five terrorists and arrested three others during an intelligence-based operation in Mastung, Balochistan, on Tuesday. The terrorists were affiliated with the Indian-sponsored terrorist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), also referred to as “Fitna-e-Hindustan.”
The operation was launched near the Levies compound following intelligence reports that BLA operatives had taken shelter in the area and were attacking security personnel with rockets and automatic weapons.
The District Police Officer (DPO) Mastung led the operation on the ground. A prolonged exchange of fire followed, lasting several hours. Security forces eventually surrounded the terrorists and neutralized the threat.
Five terrorists were killed on the spot, while three were captured with serious injuries. A large cache of weapons, ammunition, rocket launchers, and communication devices was recovered, pointing to potential future attacks that were likely foiled.
Officials confirmed that the group had been planning to target key installations and security personnel. Investigations are ongoing, and further operations are expected based on intelligence obtained from the captured suspects.
A search operation remains underway in surrounding areas.
Earlier in the day, a 16-year-old boy was killed by terrorist gunfire during a separate exchange of fire involving the same group near the Levies compound. His death highlights the continued threat such groups pose to innocent civilians.
Before that, armed assailants carried out a coordinated assault on the central bazaar in Mastung. One civilian was killed and at least seven others injured in gunfire and explosions. The attackers also vandalised and set fire to three banks, several government buildings, and official vehicles, prompting a full shutdown of commercial activity in the area. Security forces responded swiftly and launched a cordon-and-search operation to track down the attackers.
