Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of the Pakistan Army, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that after the major terrorist incidents that took place in Balochistan during the past few days, the security forces and law enforcement agencies have responded vigorously and killed dozens of terrorists, while several personnel have sacrificed their lives in defence of the homeland.
During a press briefing in Rawalpindi, the DG ISPR said that in the last four days, three significant terrorist incidents have taken place in different areas of Balochistan, in which the civilian population, police and government installations were targeted. He said that the aim of these attacks was to spread fear and disturb the peace and stability of the province; however, the security forces responded quickly and effectively and foiled the plans of the terrorists.
He said that the terrorists carried out attacks in the area of Mangi Dam Pumping Station near Quetta and in Ziarat district, where local police personnel showed extraordinary courage in resisting. According to him, at least 15 terrorists were killed during the operation in Ziarat, while 18 police personnel, who belonged to the local areas, were martyred during the operation.
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry added that in another incident that occurred today, the security forces killed 14 more terrorists; however, 11 personnel also lost their lives during this operation. According to him, a total of 54 terrorists have been killed in the previous three incidents, while 42 security personnel and police personnel have been martyred in the defence of the homeland.
The DG ISPR alleged that Afghan soil is being used for terrorist operations in Pakistan, and these elements are receiving support from across the border. He said that Pakistan has repeatedly raised its concerns on this issue with the relevant authorities and expects that its soil will not be allowed to be used against any neighbouring country.
During the press briefing, he also alleged that India is involved in efforts to create instability in Pakistan and is backing elements spreading unrest in Balochistan. He said that the state will continue to act against all such networks, facilitators and terrorist groups, and all possible steps will be taken to bring them to justice.
The Pakistan Army spokesperson said that there will be no compromise on Pakistan’s security, public safety and national stability. He reiterated that the ongoing operations against terrorism will continue with full force and the security agencies are always ready to deal with the threats facing the country.
He added that the state’s stance is clear that terrorism has no connection with religion and indiscriminate action will continue against elements targeting innocent citizens, security personnel or national installations.