QUETTA: Nine more terrorists were killed in intelligence-based operations conducted by security forces in different areas of Balochistan under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3, security sources said here on Tuesday.

Security officials said a major intelligence-based operation was carried out in the mountainous region between Ziarat and Harnai following credible intelligence about the presence of terrorists. Security forces cordoned off a terrorist hideout and launched an operation, killing eight terrorists and destroying the hideout.

In another successful operation in Hajika village of Surab district, one terrorist was killed. Security forces had tracked the movement of terrorists between Dasht-e-Katai and Hajika before launching the operation.

Ammunition, magazines, hand grenades, a walkie-talkie, a motorcycle and other equipment were recovered from the possession of the killed terrorists, the sources said.

Eight killed in mountainous region between Ziarat and Harnai; one gunned down in Surab district

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the security forces for the successful intelligence-based operations in Balochistan. He said the nation was proud of the brave personnel who foiled the nefarious designs of terrorists, adding that the operations reflected the security forces’ commitment to protecting national security.

Mr Naqvi said the nation stood shoulder to shoulder with the security forces in the fight against terrorism.

Published in Dawn, August 19th, 2026