Islamabad, February 2, 2025 – The Europe Today: Eighteen soldiers were martyred while thwarting a cowardly terrorist attack in Kalat district of Balochistan on the night between Friday and Saturday. In response, security forces eliminated 23 terrorists during the engagement and subsequent follow-up operations in Harnai district.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), terrorists attempted to set up roadblocks in the Mangocher area of Kalat on the night of January 31 and February 1. “On the behest of hostile forces, this cowardly act of terrorism was aimed at disrupting the peaceful environment of Balochistan and targeting innocent civilians,” the ISPR stated.
Security forces and law enforcement agencies swiftly mobilized to neutralize the threat, killing 12 terrorists and ensuring the safety of the local population. However, during the operations, 18 brave soldiers embraced martyrdom after fighting valiantly.
Following the terrorist attack, multiple sanitization operations are being carried out across Balochistan. In a separate operation in Harnai district, security forces engaged terrorists, eliminating 11 more. Several terrorist hideouts were also dismantled.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir reaffirmed the army’s commitment to ensuring security and stability in Balochistan. During his visit to the province, he was briefed on the prevailing security situation. The COAS, along with the Governor and Chief Minister of Balochistan, attended the funeral prayers of the martyred soldiers and visited the injured at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Quetta, commending their unwavering courage.
Addressing the nation, the COAS said, “Those acting as terrorist proxies for foreign masters, who have mastered the art of duplicity, are well known. No matter their actions, they will be defeated by the resilience of our proud nation and armed forces, In-sha-Allah. We will retaliate and hunt them down wherever they may be.”
Nation Pays Tribute to Martyred Soldiers
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the terrorist attack in Kalat and lauded the security forces for their successful operation in Harnai. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid glowing tribute to the 18 soldiers of Frontier Corps who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
Separately, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan strongly condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the armed forces, stating that the entire nation stands united against terrorism.
Security forces have vowed to continue sanitization operations until all perpetrators and facilitators of terrorism are brought to justice.
