21 Indian-sponsored terrorists killed as security forces foil attacks in Balochistan

Highway attack. On August 31, terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Hindustan attempted to disrupt the movement of commuters along the N-40 Quetta-Taftan Highway by establishing an illegal checkpoint for extortion, ISPR said. Security forces responded immediately, resulting in an intense exchange of fire in which 11 terrorists were killed.

A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the militants, 's media wing. The operation was part of the security forces' response to attempts to disrupt public movement and carry out criminal activities along a key national highway.

Customs House attack. During the night of August 31-September 1, terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij launched a coordinated attack aimed at breaching the Customs House, ISPR said. Security forces responded to the assault and killed 10 terrorists following an intense exchange of fire.

The fleeing militants were also engaged by security forces, inflicting further casualties,. ISPR described the attack as a manifestation of a "terror-crime nexus", saying it was orchestrated to prevent Customs officials from carrying out their lawful duties and to facilitate the continuation of criminal activities in the area.

However, six personnel were killed during the exchange of fire. ISPR said the fallen included two officers and a government official from the Customs Department, describing them as "brave sons of the soil" who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Sanitisation operations are continuing in surrounding areas to locate and eliminate any remaining terrorists. The operations are also aimed at ensuring the safety and security of local residents and protecting vital national highways. ISPR said the counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of "Azm-e-Istehkam", approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, would continue with full resolve.

The military said security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating what it described as foreign-sponsored and foreign-supported terrorism from Pakistan.