At least three terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan, the military's media wing (ISPR) confirmed on Thursday.
"An IBO was initiated to clear a hideout of terrorists linked with firing incidents on security forces and civilians besides planting of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) on Turbat – Hoshab Road in general area Gishkore," the ISPR stated.
According to the statement, after continuous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) of the area, a hideout location was identified and security forces were inserted by helicopters.
While the forces were establishing blocking positions to cut the escape routes, however, the terrorists were said to have opened fire on the security forces.
After a heavy exchange of fire, the ISPR said three terrorists were killed while a cache of ammunition, including IEDs, was recovered.
Read Two alleged terrorists held
"Security forces, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart such attempts aimed at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan," the statement read.
On Friday, the National Security Committee decided to launch a comprehensive operation against terrorists, as the country’s civil and military leadership virtually issued a charge sheet against the previous government and the establishment for allowing the banned TTP to regroup.
The high-level huddle chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and attended by services chiefs and top intelligence officials as well as senior cabinet ministers came against the backdrop of a host of developments — both on the political and security fronts.
Notably, the "all-out comprehensive operation" against terrorist outfits in Pakistan is the first such offensive against terrorism since 2016.
Read the full story at the express tribune website.
