Pakistan security forces have completed a massive operation in the southwestern province of Balochistan. In a span of just 40 hours, the forces killed 145 militants following coordinated attacks across the region. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti confirmed these numbers during a press conference in Quetta on Sunday. The situation was one of the most intense flare-ups seen in recent years, with authorities now working to clear the remaining areas.
Details of the 40-hour security operation
The conflict began early on Saturday morning around 3:00 AM when militants launched attacks in multiple districts. The security forces responded with a large-scale clearance operation that spanned across 12 towns, including Quetta, Gwadar, and Mastung. Chief Minister Bugti stated that the bodies of all 145 militants are now in the custody of the authorities. Intelligence reports had alerted the government a day earlier, allowing them to start pre-operations on Friday to counter the threat.
Casualties and strict government measures
The violence resulted in a heavy loss of life beyond the militants. Government data confirms that 31 civilians, including women and children, were killed during the attacks. Security forces also suffered losses, with 17 personnel from the Police, Frontier Corps, and Navy losing their lives in the line of duty.
- Mobile phone services remain jammed in affected districts to prevent remote blasts.
- Train services across the province have been suspended for safety.
- Hospitals in major districts are on high emergency alert.
- The government has announced a zero-tolerance policy for attacks on state infrastructure.