Pakistani army soldiers patrol at D Chowk near the President’s House, as Pakistan prepares to host the US and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan April 21, 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS
A soldier was martyred as security forces killed 14 terrorists in the Naal area of Balochistan’s Basima district in an intelligence-based operation (IBO), thwarting their plan to attack a police station and banks, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
A press release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said reports were received on Monday of the presence of terrorists belonging to “Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan” in the area, adding that they were reportedly planning to attack a nearby police station and banks in the area.
The federal government last year officially designated all terrorist groups operating in Balochistan as ‘Fitna al Hindustan’, accusing India of sponsoring a proxy war through these outfits.
“On receipt of the information, swift action was undertaken by security forces and an IBO was launched to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the movement of terrorists was “effectively checked and engaged by own forces punitively”.
It said “14 Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell” while multiple terrorists were injured after an intense fire exchange.
“However, during the intense exchange of fire, a brave son of soil, Lance Havildar Muhammad Abbass, having fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” the ISPR said.
Four vehicles being used by the terrorists and improvised explosive devices were also destroyed on the spot.
“Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored terrorist found in the area,” the press release said.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the security forces for conducting the successful IBO.
The president said that the timely and effective operation reflected the professionalism of the state institutions and the nation’s unwavering resolve against terrorism.
Appreciating the bravery and sacrifices of the security forces, President Zardari commended them for eliminating 14 terrorists, the President’s Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.
The president said that continued operations against anti-state elements were essential for safeguarding national security and ensuring peace and stability in the country.
The prime minister paid tribute to the martyred soldier.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the PM Office Media Wing 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 resolve to completely eradicate all forms of terrorism from the country.
