Army says 216 terrorists killed as intelligence operations target Indian-sponsored networks
Pakistani security forces successfully concluded ‘Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1’ in Balochistan, carrying out a series of coordinated and intelligence-led operations against what the army described as Indian-sponsored terrorist elements, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.
In a statement, the ISPR said the operations targeted terrorist groups seeking to disrupt peace and development by attacking innocent civilians, including women and children. The campaign involved rapid and coordinated actions by the armed forces, law enforcement and intelligence services.
State media reported on Tuesday that Pakistani security forces had killed a total of 197 terrorists belonging to the banned group Fitna al-Hindustan during ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the province. According to official figures, 22 members of the security forces were martyred during these operations.
“On January 29, 2026, operations were launched in Panjgur and outskirts of Harnai district after credible and verified intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorist elements posing an imminent threat to the local population,” the ISPR said. “During this phase, security forces carried out operations against identified terrorist hideouts, resulting in the elimination of 41 terrorists affiliated with Indian proxy networks. »
The military said security forces subsequently repelled what it said were desperate attacks by Fitna al-Hindustan — a term the military uses for Balochistan terror groups — aimed at destabilizing Balochistan. “Subsequently, the courageous security forces’ aggressive and unwavering responses effectively thwarted Fitna al Hindustan’s desperate attacks aimed at destabilizing peace in Balochistan,” the statement said.
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He added that a broader series of intelligence-led operations were then launched in several areas to dismantle terrorist sleeper cells through sustained mopping and disinfection efforts.
“Through meticulous planning, actionable intelligence and seamless joint execution, the security and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan, with the support of intelligence agencies under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1, responded with precision and determination,” the ISPR said. “As a result of these well-coordinated engagements and subsequent clearance operations, 216 terrorists were sent to hell, significantly degrading the leadership, command and control structures and operational capabilities of the terrorist networks. »
The army said a large cache of weapons, ammunition, explosives and equipment of foreign origin was recovered during the operations. According to the statement, a preliminary analysis revealed systematic external facilitation and logistical support to terrorist groups.
Learn more: So far, 197 terrorists killed and 22 security forces personnel martyred in operations in Balochistan, according to state media
According to the ISPR, 36 civilians, including women and children, were killed during the operations, while 22 security and law enforcement personnel “made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Pakistan’s territorial integrity and protection of its citizens.”
“Their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment reflect the highest traditions of service. The Nation honors their sacrifice and stands in solidarity with the families of all the martyrs,” the statement said.
The Pakistan Armed Forces reiterated its determination to continue counter-terrorism operations under the government’s National Action Plan, saying efforts would continue “with full determination until the complete elimination of terrorist threats.”
“Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 is a testimony to the unwavering commitment of the people of Pakistan, and particularly of Balochistan, to always prefer peace over violence, unity over division and development over violence,” the ISPR added.
