Security forces kill 18 Indian-proxy groups in two operations in Zhob

RAWALPINDI: Security forces killed 18 Indian-sponsored militants during two separate operations in Zhob district of Balochistan, according to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

In a statement, ISPR said an intelligence-based operation (IBO) was carried out on February 24 in Zhob, resulting in the killing of eight militants described as Indian-backed “Khawarij.”

The following day, on February 25, security forces conducted a comprehensive clearance operation in the same district. According to ISPR, the operation was launched to eliminate hidden elements of what it termed the Indian proxy group “Fitna al Khawarij.”

During the operation, troops traced the movement of militants along multiple routes and effectively targeted their hideouts. After an intense exchange of fire, 10 more Indian-sponsored militants were killed.

ISPR said weapons, ammunition, and explosive materials were recovered from the slain militants, who were allegedly involved in multiple terrorist activities in the area.

The military’s media wing added that clearance operations are continuing to eliminate any remaining Indian-backed terrorists in the region. It reiterated that counterterrorism efforts are being pursued under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” vision and affirmed that security forces remain determined to eradicate externally sponsored terrorism from the country.