The Kabul Tribune (KT)— Pakistani security forces killed three militants, including a commander, during an operation in Mastung district of Balochistan, state media reported Monday, citing security sources.
According to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan and
Radio Pakistan, security forces used a quadcopter to target a vehicle allegedly
linked to what Pakistani authorities call “Fitna-al-Hindustan,” a term the
government uses for Balochistan-based militant groups while alleging Indian
involvement in terrorism and destabilization in Pakistan.
The reports said the strike killed three militants and
completely destroyed the vehicle. They did not provide details about the
identities of those killed or independently verifiable evidence of their
affiliation with the group.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the
security forces for what he described as a successful operation, saying they
had prevented the militants from carrying out their plans.
Naqvi said security forces would continue operations against
militant groups wherever necessary and described their efforts as important to
maintaining security and combating terrorism.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti also praised the
operation, describing it as a demonstration of the state’s resolve against
militant groups.
“The sacrifices and services of the security forces for the
establishment of peace in Balochistan are commendable,” Bugti said, according
to state broadcaster PTV.
The Pakistani government has increasingly used the term
“Fitna-al-Hindustan” in official statements when referring to militant activity
in Balochistan and has accused India of supporting or facilitating attacks in
Pakistan. India has repeatedly denied allegations that it sponsors terrorism in
Pakistan.
The latest operation comes amid continued militant violence
in Balochistan, where separatist groups have carried out attacks against
security forces, civilians and infrastructure. Pakistani authorities have
pledged to continue security operations against armed groups operating in the
province.
