Pakistani army soldiers patrol at D Chowk near the President’s House as Pakistan prepares to host the US and Iran for the second phase of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan April 21, 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS
A soldier was martyred when security forces killed 14 terrorists in Naal area of Balochistan’s Basima district in an intelligence-based operation (IBO), foiling their plan to attack a police station and banks, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
A press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that reports were received on Monday about the presence of terrorists belonging to “Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan” in the area, adding that they were allegedly planning to attack a nearby police station and banks in the area.
The federal government last year officially designated all terrorist groups operating in Balochistan as ‘Fitna al Hindustan’accusing India of sponsoring a proxy war through these outfits.
“On receipt of the information, prompt action was taken by security forces and an IBO was launched to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists,” the ISPR said, adding that the movement of terrorists was “effectively controlled and engaged by own forces punitively”.
It said “14 Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell” while several terrorists were injured after an intense exchange of fire.
“However, during the intense exchange of fire, a brave son of soil, Lance Havildar Muhammad Abbass, after fighting gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” ISPR said.
Four vehicles used by the terrorists and improvised explosive devices were also destroyed at the site.
“Decontamination operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored terrorist found in the area,” the press release said.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the security forces for conducting the successful IBO.
The President said the timely and effective operation reflected the professionalism of the government institutions and the nation’s unwavering resolve against terrorism.
President Zardari appreciated the bravery and sacrifices of the security forces and praised them for eliminating 14 terrorists, the Presidential Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.
The President said continued operations against anti-government elements were essential to protect national security and ensure peace and stability in the country.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the martyred soldier.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.
He said that the security forces achieved major successes in the fight against terrorism.
The Prime Minister confirmed the government’s resolve to completely eradicate all forms of terrorism from the country.
