QUETTA: At least six terrorists were killed in a heavy exchange of gunfire between security forces and outlawed elements during an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.

The ISPR statement said that on the night of Oct 31, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the general area of Sambaza, Zhob district, on the reported presence of terrorists.

It said that during the operation, intense gunfire exchange took place between security forces and terrorists, resulting in the killing of six terrorists. A cache of arms, ammunition and explosives was also recovered, it added.

“The killed terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces and target killing of innocent civilians,” the ISPR statement said.

Sanitisation is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area. “Security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts of sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan,” it added.

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2023