Pakistan: 4 Security Personnel Killed, 7 Injured During Intelligence Operation In Balochistan

Islamabad: Saturday was a heavy day for Balochistan. In this troubled province of Pakistan, there was a fierce face-to-face firing between the security forces and the attackers. In this firing, 4 army soldiers were martyred on the spot and 7 soldiers were badly injured.

How did the encounter start?

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind said that the army had received intelligence information. The input was that some armed people were hiding in Kuchlak and Nohsar area. After this information, security forces launched a major operation on Saturday. As soon as the soldiers entered the area, the attackers sitting in ambush started firing.

What happened next, bullets started firing from both sides. This encounter continued for a long time. The attackers were hiding in high places, hence the soldiers faced difficulty. In this firing, 4 soldiers were shot and martyred. Seven soldiers were injured and were immediately taken to Quetta hospital by vehicles. Doctors are keeping an eye on his condition.

How much loss did the attackers suffer in retaliation?

The security forces did not return empty-handed. 9 attackers were killed in retaliatory firing. The search operation is still going on in the entire area. The army is raiding every suspicious hideout - every corner is being searched to ensure that no one escapes.

What happened in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa?

Apart from Balochistan, blood was also shed in the northwestern province Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Unidentified gunmen ambushed members of the Local Peace Committee in Kulachi tehsil of Dera Ismail Khan district. The attackers were heavily armed. In this attack, 4 members of the committee were killed on the spot.

Was anyone kidnapped?

One member was also kidnapped during the attack. The attackers took him with them. So far no organization has taken responsibility for this attack. Security agencies are investigating and additional troops have been deployed in the area. Every person coming and going is being checked by blocking the road.

Why are these attacks such a big concern for Pakistan?

Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are both considered the most troubled areas of Pakistan. Separatist groups are active in Balochistan. Peace Committee members in Khyber are people who support the government against the Taliban—that's why they are always targets. Attacks in two provinces in a single day clearly show that the terrorist network has still not weakened.

How is the situation now?

Operation is going on in Kuchlak and Nohsar, the army has surrounded the entire area. Injured soldiers are undergoing treatment in Quetta. Raids are being conducted in Kulachi to rescue the kidnapped member. The Pakistani military has said terrorists will not be spared — but the continuing attacks are giving the government sleepless nights. There is mourning in the homes of martyred soldiers. The government has announced help.