ISLAMABAD, Feb 1 (KUNA) -- At least 18 soldiers and 23 militants were reportedly killed in multiple security operations in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province in the last 24 hours.
"The terrorists" attempted to establish roadblocks in general area Mangocher in Kalat District of Balochistan, Pakistan military's media wing Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a press release on Saturday.
"On behest of inimical and hostile forces, this cowardly act of terrorism was aimed at disrupting the peaceful environment of Balochistan by targeting mainly the innocent civilians," said ISPR. Security forces and law enforcement agencies were immediately mobilized, who successfully thwarted the evil design of terrorists killing 12 terrorists, ensuring security and protection of the local populace. However, during the conduct of operations, 18 brave sons of soil, having fought gallantly, made the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom, ISPR confirmed.
Moreover, in the backdrop of heinous acts of terrorism in Kalat District, multiple sanitization operations are being conducted by the security forces throughout the province.
In one of such operations conducted in Harnai District, security forces effectively engaged the terrorists as a result of which, eleven terrorists were killed, the release by ISPR said. Multiple terrorist hideouts were also busted. Ensuing sanitization operations are being conducted and the perpetrators, facilitators and abettors of this heinous and cowardly act, will be brought to justice, the military vowed. "Security forces of Pakistan in step with the nation remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," it added.
Earlier on Friday, at least 10 "terrorists" were killed during multiple security operations in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province. The operations come at a time when Pakistan has witnessed a rise in terror attacks especially in KPK and Balochistan provinces bordering Afghanistan. (end) sbk.gb