Pakistani army soldiers patrol D Chowk near the President’s House as Pakistan prepares to host the United States and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 21, 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS
A soldier was martyred when security forces killed 14 terrorists in Naal area of Balochistan’s Basima district during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO), thwarting their plans to attack a police station and banks, the Army’s media wing said on Tuesday.
A press release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that information was received on Monday about the presence of terrorists belonging to “Indian proxies”. Fitna al Hindustan” in the area, adding that they planned to attack a nearby police station and banks in the area.
Last year, the federal government officially designated all terrorist groups operating in Balochistan as “Fitna al Hindustan”accusing India of sponsoring a proxy war through these groups.
“On receipt of the information, prompt action was taken by the security forces and an IBO was launched to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the movements of the terrorists were “effectively controlled and engaged by their own forces in a punitive manner”.
It said “14 Indian-sponsored terrorists were sent to hell”, while several terrorists were injured after an intense exchange of fire.
“However, during the intense exchange of fire, a brave son of the soil, Lance Havildar Muhammad Abbass, after fighting valiantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” the ISPR said.
Four vehicles used by the terrorists and improvised explosive devices were also destroyed on the spot.
“Disinfection operations are underway to eliminate any further Indian-sponsored terrorists found in the area,” the press release said.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the security forces for successfully carrying out the IBO.
The President said the timely and effective operation reflected the professionalism of state institutions and the nation’s unwavering resolve against terrorism.
Appreciating the courage and sacrifices of the security forces, President Zardari congratulated them for eliminating 14 terrorists, the media wing of the Presidential Secretariat said in a press release.
The President said continued operations against anti-state elements were essential to safeguard national security and ensure peace and stability in the country.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the martyred soldier.
He offered his condolences to the bereaved family, the media wing of the Prime Minister’s Office said in a press release.
He said security forces were achieving major successes in the fight against terrorism.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to completely eradicate all forms of terrorism from the country.
