In a tragic incident that unfolded in Balochistan’s Kech district, an army major and a soldier made the ultimate sacrifice while engaging in an exchange of fire with terrorists on Sunday night, according to a statement released by the ISPR.
Heightened Security Threats in Balochistan
The unfortunate event took place shortly after the martyrdom of four security personnel who fell victim to simultaneous attacks on three checkpoints in Sherani district. These incidents have once again brought to light the heightened security threats faced by the region.
Operation in Kech District
Acting upon credible intelligence regarding the presence of a terrorist gang, security forces launched an operation in the Hoshab area of Kech district. The objective was to capture the militants and prevent any potential harm they might cause to innocent civilians and security personnel.
Sacrifice for Peace and Stability
While the security forces were in the process of establishing blocking positions to cut off the escape routes of the terrorists, the militants initiated an unexpected attack. A fierce exchange of fire ensued, leading to the tragic demise of Major Saqib Hussain and Naik Baqir Ali, who bravely embraced martyrdom. Additionally, another soldier sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Resolute in the Face of Adversity
The ISPR emphasized that the security forces, in unison with the nation, remain resolute in their determination to counteract such attempts at sabotaging the peace, stability, and progress of Balochistan. Consequently, a follow-up operation is currently underway to apprehend the perpetrators responsible for this attack.
Simultaneous Attacks on Checkpoints
Prior to the incident in Kech district, three security check posts on the Zhob-D.I. Khan Highway in Sherani district became targets of armed attacks. These attacks, launched simultaneously, claimed the lives of four security personnel, including two officers. One suspected terrorist was also neutralized during the operation.
Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan Claims Responsibility
The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, a banned extremist organization, claimed responsibility for the attacks on the checkpoints. The group’s spokesperson issued a statement confirming their involvement in the assault.
Confrontation at the Checkpoints
The armed militants carried out the attacks by launching grenades and rockets at the police checkpoint, resulting in the martyrdom of three personnel. Subsequently, they targeted the Frontier Corps (FC) post, using grenades and automatic gunfire. The FC personnel bravely retaliated, engaging the attackers. In response to the assault, the police and Levies forces also fought back.
During the intense exchange of fire, lasting over two hours, one suspected attacker lost his life, while two others sustained injuries. Sherani Deputy Commissioner Bilal Shabbir confirmed that three police personnel and an FC officer lost their lives in the attacks.
Search and Investigation Underway
A search operation is currently being conducted in the area to trace the remaining attackers, with further investigation ongoing. The Counter-Terrorism Department has reached the site to collect evidence and aid in the investigation process.
Protest and Road Blockade
The news of the attacks spread quickly, leading to a large gathering of people from Sherani district, including relatives of the martyred security personnel, in the Danasar area. In protest against the checkpoint attacks, they blocked the Zhob-D.I. Khan Highway by placing barricades on the road. This disruption caused a temporary suspension of all traffic between Zhob and D.I. Khan for a duration of two hours. However, the road was eventually reopened after the administration assured the protesters that a thorough operation was initiated to arrest the attackers.
Condemnation and Condolences
Balochistan Governor Malik Abdul Wali Khan Kakar, Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo, and Home Minister Ziaullah Langove strongly condemned the attacks and expressed deep grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of the four security personnel. Their condolences were extended to the families of the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Balochistan continues to face security challenges, but with the unwavering commitment of security forces and the support of the nation, efforts to maintain peace, stability, and progress in the region will persist.