Security forces killed five terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Washuk, state-run Pakistan TV reported on Wednesday, citing security sources.

Terrorist hideouts were targeted with advanced weapons, sources said.

State media added that four terrorists were also injured, identifying them as belonging to Fitna al Hindustan.

The state refers to designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

The IBO was conducted under Operation Raddul Fitna 3, state media said, adding that “advanced weapons and ammunition” were recovered.

“Security forces remain determined to eliminate terrorism from Balochistan,” state media said.

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to security forces for the Washuk operation in a statement on X.

“Effective operations against terrorist elements attempting to disrupt peace and security and spread fear and panic among the public in Balochistan will continue,” President Zardari was quoted as saying.

He added, “Conspiracies by the terrorists’ foreign patrons and their local facilitators will be thwarted at any cost”.

Terrorism in Balochistan

Balochistan has witnessed terrorist attacks and security challenges for a long time.

Ten terrorists were killed in a targeted IBO conducted by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Balochistan’s Barkhan district, the Home Department said on Oct 10.

In Chagai, security forces killed two terrorists on Sept 29.

The military’s media affairs wing said on Sept 27 that more than 71 terrorists had been killed in Shaban and other areas of Balochistan.

On Sept 17, three terrorists were eliminated in an IBO in Balochistan’s Awaran district’s Badrang area. Another three were killed in Mastung on Sept 14. Earlier in September, 21 terrorists were killed in separate engagements in Nokcha, Chagai, Ziarat Cross, and Pishin.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to PICSS’ monthly assessment. As per the report, Balochistan was declared the province “most affected” by terrorism.