Pakistan’s security apparatus successfully neutralized 15 militants during two separate intelligence-driven operations conducted in Balochistan province on March 5, 2025. These operations, carried out in the districts of Harnai and Basima, targeted armed groups identified by authorities as proxies supported by foreign elements, particularly those linked to Indian sponsorship. The military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), released a detailed statement on Saturday outlining the outcomes of these coordinated counter-terrorism efforts.
The first operation unfolded in Harnai district following credible intelligence that pinpointed a militant hideout in the area. Security forces launched a swift and decisive assault, engaging the militants in a fierce gun battle. The confrontation resulted in the elimination of 12 militants, who were affiliated with groups designated by the state as Fitna al-Khawarij—a term used to describe the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)—highlighting the ongoing threat posed by this insurgent faction within the region.
Meanwhile, in Basima district, a separate operation targeted members of Fitna al-Hindustan, a label assigned to various separatist militant organizations active in Balochistan, including factions connected to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Security forces tracked down the militants and engaged them in a high-intensity firefight involving a range of mixed-calibre weapons. This encounter resulted in the deaths of three militants, further disrupting the operational capabilities of these groups.
In both operations, security personnel recovered a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives from the deceased militants. These materials are believed to have been used in several terrorist activities that have destabilized the region over recent months. The seizures underscore the persistent threat these armed groups pose to law and order in Balochistan, a province that has long grappled with insurgency and separatist violence.
The ISPR emphasized that sanitization efforts are ongoing in both Harnai and Basima districts to ensure that any remaining militant elements are flushed out and neutralized. This continuous clearance operation forms part of a broader counter-terrorism campaign under the strategic framework known as Azm-i-Istehkam. This initiative aims to dismantle militant networks comprehensively and eradicate terrorism that is allegedly supported by foreign actors seeking to destabilize Pakistan.
These recent operations come amid a backdrop of sustained security challenges not only in Balochistan but also in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Over the past few weeks, Pakistani security forces have intensified their efforts, conducting multiple intelligence-based operations. For instance, a similar operation in Bannu district earlier this week resulted in the elimination of several militants. Additionally, dozens of insurgents were reportedly neutralized across these two provinces in the preceding month, reflecting the ongoing commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to restore peace and stability.
Importantly, no casualties were reported among the security personnel involved in these latest operations, highlighting the professionalism and preparedness of the forces engaged in these high-risk missions. The military reaffirmed its resolve to continue these counter-terrorism drives until the threat posed by militant groups is completely eradicated, ensuring the safety and security of the citizens in these volatile regions.
