Balochistan Operation: Seven Terrorists Killed in Kharan Intelligence-Based Raid
Security forces recover weapons, ammunition and vehicles during an operation in Lajay area under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3
Security forces conduct an intelligence-based operation against terrorists in Balochistan
QUETTA, August 16, 2026 — Security forces killed seven terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Balochistan’s Kharan district, state media reported on Sunday.
The operation took place in the Lajay area under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna 3. Security sources said several other terrorists also suffered injuries during the action.
State-run Pakistan Television reported that troops recovered weapons, ammunition, two vehicles and a motorcycle from the terrorists’ hideouts.
President Praises Security Forces
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for the operation. In a social media statement, he described the destruction of terrorist hideouts and the recovery of weapons as an important achievement.
Zardari said action against terrorist groups operating with foreign support remains necessary to protect Pakistan’s national security.
He also said the nation stands with the security forces in their fight against terrorism.
Interior Minister Backs Continued Operations
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the security forces for their latest success.
According to a statement from his ministry, Naqvi commended the troops for their professional capabilities and their efforts to improve security in Balochistan.
The minister said the recent successes in restoring peace in the province were commendable. He added that intelligence-based operations would continue until the threat from terrorist groups is eliminated.
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Recent Operations in Balochistan
The latest Balochistan operation comes after several other security actions in the province.
On Saturday, security forces killed 10 terrorists and injured several others during an intelligence-based operation in the Shor Pard area of Khuzdar district.
Earlier, security forces reported the deaths of at least 18 terrorists in Surab district. Eight of those deaths resulted from a premature explosion, according to the military’s media wing.
Security forces also killed five terrorists, including a key commander, during an intelligence-based operation in the Sarkini and Chedgi areas of Panjgur district.
Security Situation Remains Challenging
The latest operations come as Balochistan continues to face serious security challenges.
A monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), released on July 31, reported a sharp deterioration in the province’s security situation during July.
According to the assessment, deaths linked to violence in Balochistan increased by 241 per cent. The total rose from 109 in June to 372 in July.
The report said deaths among security personnel climbed from six in June to 62 in July. Terrorist deaths increased from 75 to 238, while civilian deaths rose from 28 to 54.
The report also recorded the deaths of 18 members of peace committees during the month.
The latest security operation highlights the continued pressure on militant groups in Balochistan as Pakistani authorities step up intelligence-led actions across the province.
