A massive counter-terrorism operation in Pakistan’s Balochistan province has resulted in the deaths of 197 militants, including those allegedly backed by India, over the past three days. The operation, which was launched in response to a series of attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), has also claimed the lives of 22 Pakistani security personnel and 36 civilians, including women and children.
The BLA had carried out coordinated attacks on 12 cities and towns in the province on January 31, killing 17 security personnel and 31 civilians. The attacks were followed by a large-scale military operation, which has so far resulted in the deaths of 197 militants, including three suicide bombers.
The Pakistani military’s media wing, ISPR, stated that the militants had targeted civilians, including women, children, and laborers, in an attempt to disrupt normal life and development activities in the province. The ISPR also claimed that the security forces had foiled the militants’ plans and had displayed exemplary courage and professionalism in the face of the attacks.
The operation is ongoing, with security forces continuing to clear the area of militants. The total death toll from the attacks and the subsequent operation stands at 255, with many more injured.