Pakistan
Security Forces Foil Infiltration Attempt in Balochistan, 33 Killed
Security forces foiled an infiltration attempt from across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, killing 33 militants in the Sambaza area of Balochistan’s Zhob district, the military’s media wing said on Thursday.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the incident took place during the night between August 7 and 8, when a “large group of terrorists” attempted to cross into Pakistani territory.
The ISPR said the militants were affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which it described as being backed by India.
The group was detected and engaged by security personnel stationed in the area.
“Own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate,” the statement read, adding that 33 militants were killed in the ensuing exchange of fire.
A cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was also recovered from the site, officials said.
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The security forces have launched a clearance operation in the region to locate and eliminate any remaining militants or facilitators, the statement added.
In response to the development, President Asif Ali Zardari commended the security forces for their timely action and reiterated the state’s resolve to defend its borders.
“Any attempt to violate Pakistan’s sovereignty will be dealt with firmly,” the president said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the operation, saying the nation stood united with its armed forces in the fight against terrorism. “We will continue this struggle until peace is fully restored,” he said.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi termed the operation a significant success and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating militant networks operating against the country.
“Those involved in cross-border militancy and their sponsors will be brought to justice,” he said.
