Pakistan, multiple counter-terrorism operations in 24 hours

Several counter-terrorism operations were launched in Pakistan’s Balochistan region between Friday 31 January and Saturday 1 February. In a press release, government officials announced that a security operation was launched in the Harnai district on Friday, resulting in the death of eleven terrorists. Shortly afterwards, on the night of Friday 31 January to Saturday 1 February, terrorist forces attempted to set up roadblocks in the Mangocher area of Kalat district. Counter-terrorism and security forces mobilised and managed to repel them, resulting in the deaths of 12 terrorists. The counter-terrorism forces suffered casualties, with 18 soldiers killed in action. In a follow-up statement, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that clearance operations were underway in the aforementioned areas. The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack in Kalat district. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack, praised the skills and sacrifices of the soldiers, and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the fight against terrorism.