Security forces conducted an intelligence-based area sanitisation operation in the Dasht area of Mastung, targeting suspected elements of the Fitna al-Hindustan (FAH) terrorist group operating in the region. The operation was launched following the receipt of credible intelligence regarding the presence and movement of suspected militants in Killi Siah Pusht and Killi Gishtri.
Acting on the intelligence, security personnel moved into the identified areas and initiated a systematic sanitisation operation aimed at locating and neutralising the suspected terrorist elements. According to security officials, during the course of the operation, the security forces came under fire from the suspected militants, resulting in an intense exchange of fire. In the ensuing firefight, five FAH terrorists were eliminated, according to the security forces.
Following the engagement, security personnel conducted a detailed search and clearance of the area to ensure that no remaining militants or threats were present.
Security forces also recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from the operation area. The recovery, according to officials, was made during the post-operation search of the locations used by the militants. The seized material is being examined by the relevant authorities as part of the ongoing investigation into the activities and networks of the group in the area. The recovery of weapons and ammunition is expected to assist investigators in establishing further details regarding the militants’ operational capabilities and activities in the region.
During the sanitisation and clearance phase of the operation, security personnel also recovered two bodies from the area. The identities and affiliations of the deceased are being determined through the relevant identification and investigative procedures. Authorities are continuing to examine the site and available evidence to establish whether the recovered bodies are connected to the militant network targeted during the operation.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by Pakistan’s security forces to identify and disrupt militant networks operating in Balochistan and prevent them from establishing safe havens or carrying out attacks against civilians and security personnel. Security forces have continued to conduct intelligence-led operations in areas where credible information indicates the presence of armed militant elements.
The focus of such operations remains on intelligence gathering, targeted action, area sanitisation and the recovery of weapons and other material that could assist in preventing future attacks.
