Operation Shaban Claims 88 Militant Lives
At least 88 terrorists have been killed in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province since the launch of a major anti-terror operation on July 5, the government announced on Saturday. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that nine terrorists were killed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 88 since the start of Operation Shaban.
Forces Involved and Tactics
The operation involves the military, paramilitary Rangers, and the Frontier Corps, utilizing both ground and air offensives against militant hideouts. The coordinated campaign was triggered by a series of insurgent attacks across Balochistan on July 5.
Deadly Attacks on Security Forces
The deadliest attack targeted a police checkpoint at Mangi Dam in Ziarat district, where militants killed nine policemen and abducted 18 others. Their bodies were later recovered from the Zarghoon Gar mountainous area near Ziarat, according to officials.
Protests by Families of Slain Policemen
Families of the slain policemen have staged a sit-in protest at Koila Phatak Chowk on the outskirts of Quetta, demanding justice and improved security for law enforcement personnel. On Friday, protesters brought eight of the 18 bodies from the Civil Hospital in Quetta to the protest site, vowing not to bury them until the government assures justice and better protection.
Militant Attack on Tribe and Recovery of Abductees
Also on July 5, militants attacked members of the Hanna Urak Valley tribe near Quetta, killing five tribesmen, injuring eight others, and abducting 11 people. The abducted tribesmen were recovered on Friday night, leading to the end of a protest by their relatives near Quetta's Airport Road.
Decades-Long Unrest in Balochistan
Balochistan has experienced unrest for about two decades, with local ethnic Baloch groups and parties alleging that the federal government exploits the province's mineral wealth. The ongoing operation underscores the persistent security challenges in the region.
