Pakistan's security forces killed 54 terrorists in retaliatory operations following three major terrorist attacks in Balochistan over the past four days, while 42 civilians and security personnel were martyred, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference, the military spokesperson said the terrorists targeted innocent civilians and critical infrastructure, but security forces and police responded swiftly, inflicting heavy losses on the attackers.
42 martyred, 54 terrorists killed
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the three terrorist incidents claimed 42 lives, including civilians, police personnel and soldiers.
He said security forces, police and other law enforcement agencies eliminated 54 terrorists in follow-up operations conducted across different areas of Balochistan.
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"The terrorists wanted to spread fear and chaos, but their plans were foiled through the bravery of our security forces and the resilience of the people," he said.
Operations in Ziarat, Mangi Dam, Kharan and Dalbandin
The DG ISPR said terrorists attacked a police checkpoint in Ziarat, where police personnel fought back courageously, killing 15 terrorists before security forces launched pursuit operations.
He said terrorists also attacked Mangi Dam on July 6, an important facility that supplies water to Quetta. Security forces responded immediately and carried out an effective operation in the area.
Read also: Ziarat terrorism: 9 policemen martyred in checkpost attack
According to the military spokesperson, six terrorists were killed in Kharan and eight in Dalbandin, while a separate intelligence-based operation on the N-25 highway between Jhaw Cross and Kararo resulted in the killing of 19 terrorists who were blocking the road and extorting money from passengers.
He added that 11 soldiers embraced martyrdom while defending the homeland during the operation.
India and Afghan Taliban behind attacks
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that India was behind the recent wave of terrorism in Balochistan, saying hostile elements could not tolerate Pakistan's progress and stability.
He added that most of the terrorists killed were Afghan nationals and cited the recent Karachi attack, saying three of the four attackers were Afghans and the entire operation had been planned in Afghanistan.
The DG ISPR further said that the Afghan Taliban regime was providing manpower to terrorist groups operating against Pakistan.
"They have a problem with Pakistan's progress and honour. Balochistan is the life and glory of Pakistan, and its prosperity is a reality that no one can change," he said.
