ISLAMABAD, Jan 20 (NNN-APP) – Five terrorists, belonging to a banned outfit, were killed yesterday, during an intelligence-based operation in Pakistan’s south-western Balochistan province, said a statement from the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of the Police.
The CTD said that, the operation was conducted in Dasht area of Mastung district, of the province, after intelligence reports suggested the presence of a group of terrorists planning attacks.
According to the CTD, security personnel reached the area and established surveillance, followed by indiscriminate firing by terrorists, triggering a heavy exchange of gunfire.
Five terrorists were killed in the clash, while several others managed to escape by taking advantage of the mountainous terrain, said the CTD.
Arms and explosives recovered from the site included five submachine guns with ammunition, seven hand grenades and three motorcycles, said the statement, adding that, militants were planning to block the Quetta-Sibi Highway, and launch attacks on security forces and civilian traffic.
Authorities said, search operations are continuing in the area to apprehend the fleeing militants and dismantle the remaining network.
Officials reiterated that intelligence-based operations would continue across the province, to curb militant activities and ensure security on major highways.– NNN-APP