Pakistan: 13 Militants Killed in Ongoing Operation Azm in Balochistan

Quetta (Terror Monitor) — Security forces’ operations under Operation Azm in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province have killed 13 militants, according to security sources.

Security sources said intelligence-based operations are ongoing across the province, with the latest action carried out in the Khadd Kochcha area of Mastung, where more militants were killed, bringing the total number killed during Operation Azm to 13.

The sources said several hideouts of Fitna al-Hindustan were destroyed during the operation, while weapons, ammunition, and material used for preparing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were also recovered.

Several militants were also reported injured during the operation, according to security sources.

The sources said security forces’ operations will continue until the elimination of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and stability in Balochistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Quetta, where he met with Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti. The meeting focused on the overall law and order situation in the province, ongoing counterterrorism operations, and measures to further strengthen security.

Following the meeting, a high-level security meeting was held under the joint chairmanship of Mohsin Naqvi and Sarfaraz Bugti to review the province’s security situation, counterterrorism strategy, and steps to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Bugti briefed officials on the current security situation, ongoing measures against terrorism, and future strategy. It was decided to further improve the professional capacity of the Balochistan Police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), including better training and modern equipment.

The meeting also agreed to accelerate implementation of decisions aimed at strengthening the provincial police. The Interior Ministry assured full cooperation in providing required resources, modern technology, and other necessary facilities.

Mohsin Naqvi said establishing lasting peace in Balochistan remains a top priority of the federal government, adding that all possible support would continue for this purpose. He stressed the need for immediate and effective implementation of the peace restoration master plan.

He said modern technology, improved intelligence capabilities, inter-agency coordination, and a comprehensive strategy were essential in the fight against terrorism.

Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti said the government would remain one step ahead in the fight against terrorism and would not bow to any pressure. He said the writ of the state would be maintained at all costs and no space would be left for militants in Balochistan.

Bugti added that providing education, skills, employment opportunities, and positive activities for youth remained a government priority. He said peace, development, and prosperity were interconnected and efforts would continue with federal support to accelerate security and development initiatives across the province.