QUETTA: Security forces killed four more terrorists on Friday during an ongoing clearance operation in the Khud Kocha area of the Mastung district, bringing the total number of terrorist casualties to 10 in two days following a deadly attack on a passenger coach.

The sweeping security operation, conducted under an indefinite curfew, was launched in retaliation for a shooting three days ago on a Karachi-bound coach coming from Quetta that claimed three lives and injured five others.

Officials said the operation continues in the sub-tehsil, with reports indicating that many armed men were also injured in the gunbattles.

During the operation the previous day, officials claimed the killing of six terrorists and the recovery of a huge quantity of arms and ammunition.

Security forces also claimed the arrest of female suicide bombers and several other suspects whom officials considered to be working as facilitators for the attackers. Authorities seized multiple motorcycles used by the armed men.

‘Political solution’

As the clearance operation and curfew continue in Khud Kocha, provincial leadership emphasised the need for a political resolution to the ongoing crisis. Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to dialogue.

Speaking to political and tribal leaders on Friday, Langove said the government has never refused negotiations and believes lasting solutions to political and social issues can only be achieved through democratic and parliamentary processes.

“Differences of opinion on matters of national interest should be viewed as part of a healthy political process rather than as acts against the state,” Mr Langove said.

He said that parliament remains the most effective platform for political parties to present their views, concerns and demands.

Published in Dawn, July 25th, 2026