- Four terrorists also injured and subsequently held during intense fire exchange: ISPR
- PM Shehbaz, Mohsin Naqvi condemn attack, emphasizing such violent acts can’t dent govt’s commitment to Balochistan’s progress and prosperity.
RAWALPINDI: Seven soldiers were martyred and six terrorists were sent to hell during fire exchange following terrorists’ attempted attack, targeting a security checkpost in Balochistan’s Kalat, according to the military’s media wing on Saturday.
A statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), stated: “On night 15/16 November 2024, terrorists attempted to attack a security forces’ post in general area Shah-e-Mardan of Kalat District.”
“Own troops fought gallantly as a result of which six terrorists were sent to hell, while four terrorists were injured. However, during intense exchange of fire, seven brave sons of soil, having fought gallantly, embraced shahadat,” it said.
“Sanitization operation is being carried out to eliminate any terrorist found in the area,” the ISPR said.
Security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan, and such sacrifices of our soldiers further strengthen our resolve, it added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack on security checkpost in Shah-e-Mardan area of Kalat District and expressed sorrows over the martyrdom of brave soldiers.
In a statement issued here, the Prime Minister expressed his condolences, praying for the martyrs to be granted a higher status in heaven. He extended his sympathies to the grieving families affected by the tragedy.
Shehbaz also directed the provision of the best medical care for the injured and instructed that immediate action be taken against the culprits, ensuring they face exemplary punishment.
“The elements spreading chaos and unrest in Balochistan are enemies of the people and the province’s development,” the Prime Minister said, emphasizing that such acts of violence would not deter the government’s commitment to the region’s progress and prosperity.
The Prime Minister reiterated the nation’s determination to thwart the malicious agendas of the country’s enemies and reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism would continue until its complete eradication from Pakistan.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the attack on the checkpost in Kalat, offering tribute to the martyred personnel. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Naqvi emphasised that the martyred personnel had attained the highest honour of martyrdom, and their sacrifices for peace would be remembered forever.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also condemned the terrorist incident in Kalat, expressing sorrow over the loss of precious lives. She extended her condolences to the grieving families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also condemned the attack on the FC checkpost, expressing his deep sorrow over the martyrdom of security personnel. He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by the forces for the peace of the country, reaffirming that their sacrifices will never be in vain.
The incident comes days after a suicide bombing at Quetta Railway Station, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including a woman, and left more than 60 others injured.
Only yesterday, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced that mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in certain areas of Balochistan, citing public safety concerns amidst a recent surge in terrorist attacks.
The PTA statement explained that the decision followed directives from relevant authorities and was implemented to “ensure public safety given the security situation in these areas.”
The temporary suspension comes as Pakistan grapples with an uptick in violent incidents, particularly affecting Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces. The PTA has yet to provide a timeline for the restoration of internet services in the affected areas.
The security landscape in Balochistan has worsened in recent months.
