Police said an Afghan national was also found injured in the river the other day.

Officials at Jussak police station said local residents spotted the bodies and informed the local administration about the dumping of the remains.

Police immediately rushed to the site and recovered three bodies along with an injured man.

The bodies and the injured man were shifted to Turbat hospital, where the injured was identified as Abdul Aziz, while the deceased were identified as Salim Akbar, Sher Agha Khan and Najeeb-Uddin.

Quoting hospital officials, police said the bodies appeared to be around three days old. Further investigation was under way.

Published in Dawn, September 30th, 2026

Large quantities of weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists, who belonged to Fitna al Khawarij, security sources said on the operation in Bara.

Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. “As a result of the security forces’ operation, Fitna al Khawarij hideouts were completely destroyed,” security sources said.

“Security forces remain committed to the complete eradication of the scourge of terrorism from the country and the establishment of lasting peace.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan TV, citing security sources, reported that security forces killed two terrorists in operations in Balochistan’s Chagai.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement on Tuesday, commended security forces for successful operations in KP and Balochistan, according to Radio Pakistan.

He said the security forces had demonstrated their professional capabilities, courage and bravery, adding that the entire nation stood shoulder to shoulder with its brave security forces in the fight against terrorism.

PM further said that operations would continue until terrorism was completely eliminated from the country.

President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the security forces and law enforcement agencies for their successful operations in KP and Balochistan, state-run APP reported.

In a statement, the president said “the entire nation was proud of the courage of the security forces and law enforcement personnel”, stressing that anti-terror operations would continue with full force until the eradication of terrorism.

The president said the Pakistani nation and its valiant armed forces were capable of and determined to foil the designs of the enemies of peace and stability in Pakistan, the region and the world.

He reiterated that, with the cooperation of friendly countries and allies, every effort by enemies of peace and stability would be thwarted.

The engagement comes two days after more than 71 terrorists were killed in Shaban and other areas of Balochistan, according to the military’s media affairs wing.

On Sept 20, two officers and four others were martyred while eight terrorists were killed in a fire exchange in KP’s Hangu. On Sept 17, security forces killed 10 terrorists in separate operations in KP between Sept 15 and 17. Earlier in the month, over 20 terrorists were killed during multiple engagements in KP between Sept 3 and 5.

According to the monthly data by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), at least 378 people were killed as the number of terrorist attacks rose in August.

The data also showed that operations by security forces resulted in the elimination of 203 terrorists while 54 security personnel were martyred, marking a decrease compared to July. According to the report, Balochistan remained the “most affected” province, followed by KP.

On the directives of Fisheries Marine Director Ahmed Nadeem and under the supervision of Fisheries Gwadar Assistant Director Shah Fahad, a fisheries monitoring team inspected the mesh sizes of nets being used on various boats and directed fishermen to refrain from using prohibited nets.

Sources said the mesh size of these nets is extremely small, measuring barely 10mm, allowing even juvenile fish to be caught. In recent years, some local fishermen have increasingly used harmful fishing gear, including fine plastic mesh nets, small-mesh nets, encircling nets and wire nets, locally known as gujja. These practices pose a serious threat to marine biodiversity and contribute to the depletion of fish stocks.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2026

NP President Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, who chaired the meeting, cautioned political leaders against policies that deepen mistrust. He emphasised that restoring democracy, respecting federal principles, and engaging all national stakeholders were essential to resolving the country’s political and economic challenges.

The situation in Balochistan and KP, he said, was particularly dangerous. The writ of the government had weakened in several areas, while political activity faced restrictions and parliament, democratic institutions, media and other state institutions were facing challenges. The NP leader said the country’s problems could not be resolved through further administrative divisions or the use of force, but through restoration of democracy, respect for federal principles and political dialogue.

Published in Dawn, September 28th, 2026

The demand was made during consultative sessi­ons led by FDI Exe­c­u­tive Director Uzma Yaqoob.

Ms Yaqoob said women’s menstrual hygiene rem­ains one of the areas of public services that has long received inadequate attention, despite directly affecting a large segment of the population.

The absence of a comprehensive provincial policy and clear framework has resulted in the provision of basic facilities in schools, healthcare centres and public institutions being dependent on the individual capacity and priorities of relevant departments, she said.

As a result, some institutions have adequate facilities, while girls and women at other locations remain deprived of basic necessities.

“Establishing infrastructure alone is not enough,” Ms Yaqoob said, stressing that its maintenance and functioning must also be ensured.

Schools and public places should have secure and private washrooms, clean water, soap, proper waste disposal systems and designated spaces for rest when required, she said. “A girl’s education and school attendance should not depend on whether her school has a functional and safe washroom.”

Published in Dawn, September 28th, 2026

In a statement, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) recalled that based on credible intelligence, security forces had launched a “swift operation against the terrorists in Ziarat and surrounding areas” on Sept 21.

“As the Pakistan Army’s operation progresses, more than 71 terrorists have been killed so far in Operation Shaban and other areas of Balochistan in [the] last 96 hours, delivering a serious blow to Indian-backed Afghan proxies,” the statement said.

ISPR noted that Pakistan’s intelligence agencies had identified “multiple hideouts of Indian-sponsored Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan in the general area of Shaban, District Quetta, posing a threat to the local population”.

The state uses the term Fitna al Khawarij for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and refers to designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

During the operation in Shaban, security forces engaged the terrorists and cleared multiple hideouts, ISPR said. Following intense exchanges of fire, 33 “Indian-sponsored terrorists” were killed, with weapons, ammunition and explosives also recovered.

Over the last 72 hours, the operation was intensified, resulting in the killing of 23 terrorists, the statement added.

“Security forces have cleared a vast area and relieved local communities of the threat posed by Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan. The clearance operation is continuing until complete neutralisation of the threat,” ISPR stated.

The number of terrorists killed in the Shaban operation had reached 13 on Sept 23, and then increased to 22 the next day.

ISPR then recalled that 11 “Indian-sponsored terrorists” were killed in a separate intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Noshki on Sept 25 (Friday).

Another six “Fitna al Hindustan terrorists” were neutralised in Mand, with a large quantity of weapons and ammunition recovered, according to ISPR.

The statement highlighted that the “Afghan Taliban regime’s involvement in terrorism activities in Pakistan, backed and sponsored by India, continues to cause loss of precious lives and threaten peace and stability”.

The counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm-i-Istehkam”, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, will continue with full resolve, ISPR declared.

“Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” it reaffirmed.

According to earlier ISPR statements, six terrorists had been killed during “pre-emptive” IBOs in Kech and Quetta West on Sept 22 and 23.

Balochistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks in recent weeks, prompting security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

‘Terrorism under foreign patronage’

President Asif Ali Zardari commended the security forces for their successful operations against terrorists of Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan in Balochistan.

In a statement issued by the Presidency, he termed the clearance of numerous terrorist hideouts in the province a major success for the security forces.

President Zardari emphasised that operations would continue until the complete eradication of terrorism “fueled by foreign patronage and assistance”.

“The sacrifices and services of our security forces in the fight against terrorism are a source of pride for the entire nation,” the president added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the security forces and said Pakistan was determined to completely eliminate terrorism being carried out on its soil with foreign support, according to state-owned Radio Pakistan.

Lauding the security forces’ professional skills, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi noted that “nefarious designs” of terrorists had been thwarted.

“The brave soldiers of the security forces are a proud asset of the nation,” he said in a statement, adding that operations will continue till the eradication of Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan terrorists.

QUETTA/KHUZDAR: At least eight suspected terrorists were killed in a clash with the Bugti Peace Force, a pro-government tribal militia, in the Loti area of Dera Bugti district on Saturday, according to police officials.

A policeman who was part of the peace force was martyred and three other members were injured during the clash.

Separately, a tribal leader was killed in the Naal area of Khuzdar and firing was also reported at the residence of Sardar Aslam Bizenjo, a central leader of the National Party, in the same area.

Police officials said that following the clash, the peace force arrested seven suspected terrorists who allegedly belonged to a banned outfit.

Sources said armed men attacked the residence of Dera Bugti District Council Chairman Ghulam Nabi Shambani and a gas company camp in the Loti area of Dera Bugti district with heavy weapons in the early hours of Saturday.

The Bugti Peace Force personnel, who were deployed for the protection of the district council chairman and the gas company camp, took positions and returned fire.

An exchange of fire continued for over an hour, during which heavy weapons, including rockets, were used by both sides. Some attackers were killed in the exchange of fire.

Sources said that after the heavy exchange of fire, some attackers escaped from the site. However, they returned later in the day and again attacked the residence of the Dera Bugti district council chairman, who is close to Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti.

The sources added that eight attackers were killed in the exchange of fire while seven others were arrested by the peace force. Their bodies were shifted to Loti hospital.

“A member of the peace force identified as Fazal Khan lost his life as he suffered multiple bullet injuries,” a police official said.

“Three other members of the peace force, who were injured in the clash, were shifted to a hospital,” he added.

The official said further action and investigation into the incident were underway.

Tribal leader shot dead

Meanwhile, a tribal leader, Sardar Ghulam Nabi Siyahpad, was gunned down by unidentified attackers in the Naal area of Khuzdar district.

Police officials said the attackers, riding motorcycles, opened fire on the tribal leader while he was sitting outside his house in the evening.

He sustained multiple bullet wounds and died at the spot, while the attackers fled.

In a separate incident, unidentified men opened fire at the residence of National Party central leader and former provincial minister Sardar Muhammad Aslam Bizenjo in Naal town, injuring one of his security guards.

“Sardar Bizenjo was not present in the house at the time,” a police officer said.

Police launched investigations into the incidents. No group has so far claimed responsibility for either attack.

The National Party’s Khuzdar district chapter condemned the firing on Sardar Bizenjo’s residence and demanded an immediate, transparent and impartial investigation.

In a statement, the party’s district spokesperson said targeting the residence of a political and tribal leader was a matter of concern and urged the authorities to ensure effective security for Mr Bizenjo, his family and residence.

The National Party expressed solidarity with Mr Bizenjo and his family and prayed for the early recovery of the injured security guard.

Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026

The chief minister made these remarks during a meeting with Dr Qurat-ul-Ain, head of the Institute for Development Studies and Practices, in which the two discussed a wide range of issues concerning education and vocational training, community development, women’s empowerment and social progress in Balochistan.

The meeting underscored the need to equip young people with modern education and skills tailored to the evolving demands of the job market and economy.

It also discussed ways to harness the potential of youth and involve them more effectively in the province’s economic and social development.

“Enhancing the capacity of human resources is of fundamental importance for sustainable development in Balochistan,” CM Bugti said.

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2026

The award ceremony was held at the Reko Diq project site and attended by students, parents, community representatives, and officials from RDMC.

The successful students represent the second cohort of the RDMC Scholarship Programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening the academic capabilities of intermediate students from Chagai and preparing them for admission to leading universities across the country.

Welcoming the scholarship recipients, Ryan Mitchell, the general manager of the Reko Diq project, congratulated the students and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity.

“Your success will not only be a personal achievement but also a contribution to the progress and prosperity of your communities and the wider region. This opportunity comes with the responsibility to pursue excellence and use your education to create positive changes,” he said.

Mr Mitchell also thanked the IBA Sukkur team and Vice Chancellor Dr Asif Shaikh, along with RDMC’s Sustainability team, for successfully delivering the Foundation Programme for a second consecutive year.

Stephen Herb, sustainability manager at RDMC, highlighted the transformative role of education in community development. “Education builds stronger and more resilient communities. Every student here has earned this opportunity through dedication and hard work, supported by families and communities that believe in the power of education,” he said.

Addressing the participants, Hanno Staden, head of human resources, and Essa Tahir, community investment team lead at RDMC, emphasised that the Reko Diq Scholarship Programme is an investment in the talent, potential, and future of Chagai’s youth.

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2026

Terrorists from Fitna-al-Khawarij and Fitna-al-Hindustan were targeted in the operations, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The state uses the term Fitna al-Khawarij for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and refers to designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna al-Hindustan to highlight India’s role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

Detailing the operations, the ISPR said that on Sept 24, as part of the ongoing Operation Shaban, security forces “busted additional terrorist hideouts, and after an intense fire exchange, five “India-sponsored terrorists” were killed.

This took the tally of killed terrorist to 22, it added.

“Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from khawarij locations. The clearance operation will continue till the complete neutralisation of threat from the area,” the statement said.

In another engagement on Sept 25, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Nushki district.

“During the conduct of [the] operation, own troops effectively engaged [the] terrorists’ hideout and after an intense fire exchange, 11 terrorists were sent to hell,” the ISPR stated.

“[The] relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ (as approved by [the] Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out [the] menace of foreign-sponsored and -supported terrorism from the country,” the military’s media wing added.

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the security forces for the successful operations, according to a statement from the Presidency.

“Eliminating 33 India-backed terrorists in Balochistan is a commendable achievement for the security forces,” he was quoted as saying, praising security personnel for seizing weapons and ammunition from the terrorists.

“The nefarious designs of India-backed terrorist elements will be thwarted at all costs,” he vowed.

Balochistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks in recent weeks, prompting security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

On Wednesday, the ISPR said security for­ces had killed 19 terrorists in separate intelligence-ba­s­ed operations in Sha­ban, Kech and Quetta West during which a soldier was also martyred.

On September 22, six terrorists were killed and nine suspected individuals were arrested during an intelligence-based operation by security forces in Balochistan’s Saran Tangi area, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

According to Radio Pakistan, a large cache of ammunition and weapons were also recovered from the possession of the terrorists.

Earlier that day, security forces killed four more terrorists belonging to a banned organisation in an intelligence-based operation carried out in two areas of Panjgur district.

According to officials, security forces launched an intelligence-based operation on the information about the presence of armed militants in Koh-Prom and the Aphan area of Panjgur district.

“Four armed terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan were killed in the heavy gun battle during the operation,” they said, adding that a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from the hideouts of the terrorists.

The information ministry also took note of Afghan claims that there had been no casualties among the Afghan forces in the latest episode of clash between the two sides.

“The claim is fake and fabricated. As per actual facts, an attempted Afghan aggression in the Gulistan sector was thwarted on night between Sept 24 and Sept 25, and during the process and subsequent heavy punishment inflicted on opposing Taliban posts, at least 13 Afghan Taliban personnel were killed and several injured,” the information ministry said in a post on X.

It also shared visuals in the post, which the ministry said were of the incident.

The incident, it added, had already been “widely covered by media and circulated extensively across social media, providing visual evidence of the border engagement and punishment inflicted on the Afghan Taliban after their cowardly attack”.

“The […] Afghan ministry’s attempt is no surprise since the Taliban are habitual liars having no moral and reputational standing,” it added.

The latest clash has taken place amid an uptick in tensions at the Pak-Afghan border.

Pakistan conducted precision aerial and drone strikes in 10 locations across Afghanistan on Thursday in retaliation for drones launched from the neighbouring country a day earlier.

The response came after eight drones, launched from Afghanistan, entered Pakistani airspace near the Torkham border and Kohat on Wednesday. Security sources said they were subsequently shot down. It was also reported that the Afghan Taliban engaged in unprovoked firing the night before near Kurram as security forces foiled an attempt by terrorists to cross into Pakistan.

On Sept 21, Pakistan, in response to recent terrorist attacks in KP, conducted “calibrated” airstrikes in the border region with Afghanistan against terrorist hideouts and safe havens of terrorist organisations.

A statement from the information ministry on Monday said that over 28 terrorists were eliminated in the strikes. “It is a matter of grave concern that Afghanistan continues to remain a hub of terrorism,” the ministry said at the time, specifying that the “threat to Pakistan emanates from Afghanistan”.

The airstrikes had come after a major attack in the old Police Lines in KP’s Kohat claimed 23 lives and injured about 100 others. Eight terrorists were killed during an overnight clearance operation launched to clear the area.

Ghazab lil-Haq

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar described Monday’s action as part of Pakistan’s ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, Ghazab lil Haq.

On the night of February 26, following unprovoked firing by the Afghan Taliban from across the border, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil Haq against terrorist hideouts.

Pakistan also carried out strikes in the border region with Afghanistan in late June, with the government saying they were in response to a wave of terrorist attacks, including one on a Rangers camp in Karachi.

At the time, Tarar said that 25 terrorists were killed in those strikes in Paktia, Paktika and Kunar.

Pakistan had carried out similar strikes on terrorist hideouts along its border with Afghanistan earlier that month, killing 26 terrorists.

In July, security forces responded to unprovoked firing by the Afghan Taliban at border posts in Kurram, security sources had said. In the same month, the Afghan Taliban regime launched four rudimentary drones across the border into Balochistan, which were shot down by security forces. Two drones were also shot down in June in Qila Abdullah and Chagai districts.

Pak-Afghan ties

As clashes continue, tensions between Islamabad and Kabul have remained high. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration in Kabul to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP, that are used for attacks in Pakistan. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where he called for steps towards concrete and verifiable action to prevent the use of Afghan soil for terrorism against any neighbouring country, particularly Pakistan.

Dar said Pakistan was “seriously concerned” about the presence of over two dozen terrorist groups in Afghanistan that threatened regional and international peace and security.

Last week, Pakistan also told the UN Security Council that it would respond to terrorist threats emanating from Afghanistan in self-defence as and when needed and in accordance with international law.

Earlier this month, the Foreign Office (FO) declared that meaningful progress in relations with Kabul would depend on the Taliban taking concrete and verifiable action against Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory.

It maintained that while Islamabad welcomed China’s continuing engagement, the external facilitation could not substitute for action by Kabul against terrorist infrastructure.

According to a UN Security Council-mandated monitoring report — covering the period from December 16, 2025 to June 9, 2026 — Afg­han Taliban’s continued support for TTP has contributed to a rise in the frequency and lethality of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, even as Kabul has taken some initial steps to rein in the group.

The report also pointed to growing operational and facilitation linkages among the TTP, Al Qaeda, Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIL-K) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has said there is no insurgency in the province, but certain elements are promoting separatist ideas in the name of identity and seeking to divide Pakistan.

Speaking to participants of the 21st National Workshop on Thursday, he said no conspiracy to break up Pakistan would succeed and urged Baloch youth to reject what he described as a futile conflict and instead focus on education, development and a better future.

CM Bugti said Baloch youth were being pushed into a “futile war” that would neither benefit them nor contribute to the future of Balochistan. He said it was incorrect to attribute unrest in the province primarily to uneven development and backwardness, as disparities in development existed in Pakistan and many other countries.

“People do not take up arms or shed innocent blood for development anywhere,” he said.

CM says certain elements promoting separatist ideas

He urged young people to distinguish between facts and perceptions and develop an understanding of the province’s history. He alleged that anti-Pakistan elements based abroad were misleading youth through organised propaganda and called on them not to become part of what he described as anti-state narratives.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove has urged Afghanistan to abandon what he described as misconceptions about its past and present strength and maintain peaceful relations with Pakistan as a good neighbour.

Speaking on Thursday, he said Pakistan was an Islamic country with a rich Islamic heritage and was always prepared to safeguard its sovereignty and defend itself. “Afghanistan is our brot­herly neighbouring country and should come out of misconceptions and recognise the ground realities,” he said.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2026

State-run APP reported, citing sources, that the Afghan Taliban attempted to enter the Pakistani territory in Balochistan’s Gulistan sector and carry out an act of aggression. Meanwhile, officials also reported attacks on some border posts in Pakistan.

The APP report said in retaliatory action, several Afghan Taliban fighters were killed.

Intermittent exchange of fire between security forces and Afghan Taliban was ongoing after midnight, according the sources cited in the report.

There has been an uptick in tensions at the Pak-Afghan border lately.

Pakistan conducted precision aerial and drone strikes in 10 locations across Afghanistan in retaliation for drones launched from the neighbouring country a day earlier, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said earlier in the day.

The response came after eight drones, launched from Afghanistan, entered Pakistani airspace near the Torkham border and Kohat on Wednesday. Security sources said they were subsequently shot down. It was also reported that the Afghan Taliban engaged in unprovoked firing the night before near Kurram as security forces foiled an attempt by terrorists to cross into Pakistan.

On Sept 21, Pakistan, in response to recent terrorist attacks in KP, conducted “calibrated” airstrikes in the border region with Afghanistan against terrorist hideouts and safe havens of terrorist organisations.

A statement from the information ministry on Monday said that over 28 terrorists were eliminated in the strikes. “It is a matter of grave concern that Afghanistan continues to remain a hub of terrorism,” the ministry said at the time, specifying that the “threat to Pakistan emanates from Afghanistan”.

The airstrikes had come after a major attack in the old Police Lines in KP’s Kohat claimed 23 lives and injured about 100 others. Eight terrorists were killed during an overnight clearance operation launched to clear the area.

Ghazab lil-Haq

Tarar described Pakistan’s action as part of its ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, Ghazab lil Haq.

On the night of February 26, following unprovoked firing by the Afghan Taliban from across the border, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil Haq against terrorist hideouts.

Pakistan also carried out strikes in the border region with Afghanistan in late June, with the government saying they were in response to a wave of terrorist attacks, including one on a Rangers camp in Karachi.

At the time, Tarar said that 25 terrorists were killed in those strikes in Paktia, Paktika and Kunar.

Pakistan had carried out similar strikes on terrorist hideouts along its border with Afghanistan earlier that month, killing 26 terrorists.

In July, security forces responded to unprovoked firing by the Afghan Taliban at border posts in Kurram, security sources had said. In the same month, the Afghan Taliban regime launched four rudimentary drones across the border into Balochistan, which were shot down by security forces. Two drones were also shot down in June in Qila Abdullah and Chagai districts.

Pak-Afghan ties

As clashes continue, tensions between Islamabad and Kabul have remained high. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration in Kabul to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP, that are used for attacks in Pakistan. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where he called for steps towards concrete and verifiable action to prevent the use of Afghan soil for terrorism against any neighbouring country, particularly Pakistan.

Dar said Pakistan was “seriously concerned” about the presence of over two dozen terrorist groups in Afghanistan that threatened regional and international peace and security.

Last week, Pakistan also told the UN Security Council that it would respond to terrorist threats emanating from Afghanistan in self-defence as and when needed and in accordance with international law.

Earlier this month, the Foreign Office (FO) declared that meaningful progress in relations with Kabul would depend on the Taliban taking concrete and verifiable action against Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory.

It maintained that while Islamabad welcomed China’s continuing engagement, the external facilitation could not substitute for action by Kabul against terrorist infrastructure.

According to a UN Security Council-mandated monitoring report — covering the period from December 16, 2025 to June 9, 2026 — Afg­han Taliban’s continued support for TTP has contributed to a rise in the frequency and lethality of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, even as Kabul has taken some initial steps to rein in the group.

The report also pointed to growing operational and facilitation linkages among the TTP, Al Qaeda, Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIL-K) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Additional input from Saleem Shahid

Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers the authorities to “issue order absolute at once in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger”.

Its latest imposition was notified by the Home Department in a Sept 23 order, seen by Dawn.

The order said the government had received reports “indicating the likelihood of activities and gatherings which may adversely affect public peace, tranquillity, law and order, and the safety and security of the general public”.

In view of the reports, the government imposed the following prohibitions throughout Balochistan with immediate effect for a period of 30 days:

1. Restriction on display, carrying, possession or use of weapons of any kind in public places except where specifically authorised under the law
2. Ban on assembly or gathering of five or more persons at any public place, including sit-ins, processions, rallies, demonstrations, and similar gatherings
3. Restriction on covering or concealing of the face in public places, particularly through the use of mufflers, masks, or any other means which obstructs or prevents identification of a person

These restrictions would remain in force for 30 days “unless withdrawn, modified, or extended by the competent authority in accordance with law”, the notification said.

It further directed all relevant law enforcement agencies and district administrations to ensure the strict implementation and enforcement of the order in accordance with law.

“Any person found violating the provisions of this order shall be proceeded against in accordance with the relevant provisions of law,” the notification said.

The BHC issued these instructions while hearing a constitutional petition.

In compliance with the court’s order dated April 9, NHA Balochistan Member (West Zone) Basharat Hussain appeared before the court.

He informed the court that the NHA chairman had recently been transferred and the post was currently vacant.

Court orders plantation of trees, drinking water, rest and prayer areas along N-25, N-50

He sought additional time to submit a report on the physical progress of ongoing development works on the N-25 and N-50 highways and compliance with orders issued by the court on different dates.

During the hearing, the court observed that there was a considerable distance between the two proposed rest areas, necessitating further measures to provide basic facilities to people travelling on national highways.

Solar tube-wells

The court also directed that solar-powered tube-wells be installed along the highways to facilitate plantation on both sides of the roads and provide clean drinking water to travellers as well as residents.

The court further directed that suitable locations be designated for separate rest and prayer areas for travellers. It stressed that such facilities should be provided in a manner that enables disadvantaged communities, particularly residents of remote areas, to benefit from them.

The court ordered that work on these projects should be initiated on a priority basis.

The court also directed the formulation of practical and appropriate policy guidelines to ensure the provision of small business centres and other essential facilities according to travellers’ needs, including the leasing or renting of adjoining land of proposed tube-wells and rest areas under suitable terms and conditions.

The court observed that providing the­se basic facilities along national highways would not only facilitate travellers but also help meet the needs of local people.

The court ordered that a copy of the decision be forwarded through the offices of the additional attorney general, additional advocate general and the NHA’s counsel to the relevant authorities for information and compliance.

The court adjourned the hearing of the case until Nov 23.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2026

In a statement, it said intelligence agencies had reported the presence of multiple hideouts of Indian-sponsored Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan in Quetta district’s Shaban area “posing a threat to the local population”.

The state uses the term Fitna al Khawarij for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and refers to designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

“In order to safeguard the local populace and clear the area of terrorists, security forces have been conducting a clearance operation in the general area of Shaban since Sept 21. During the operation, security forces effectively engaged and cleared multiple terrorist hideouts,” it said.

“Following an intense exchange of fire, 13 Indian-sponsored terrorists have been killed so far. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the cleared hideouts. The clearance operation will continue until the complete neutralisation of the threat in the area,” it said.

The ISPR statement went on to say that security forces also conducted “pre-emptive intelligence-based operations” in Kech and Quetta West, during separate engagements on Sept 22 and 23.

“During the operations, troops effectively engaged the terrorists and, following an intense exchange of fire, six terrorists were killed,” it said, adding that weapons and ammunition were also recovered.

It said that 39-year-old Subedar Muhammad Jamil, a resident of Taunsa Sharif, embraced martyrdom during the exchange of fire.

The statement said that the counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ would continue at full pace.

“Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” it concluded.

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the security forces for their successful operations. In a statement, he said that the elimination of Indian-backed terrorists was a testament to the professionalism of the security forces.

President Zardari also paid tribute to Subedar Jamil, saying that his sacrifice was a symbol of the security forces’ unwavering commitment to the nation’s peace and security.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also hailed the successful operations.

“We commend the courage and professional capabilities of the security forces for killing 19 terrorists,” Naqvi said, adding that operations against those disrupting the peace in Balochistan were ongoing.

Earlier in the day, Radio Pakistan had reported that security forces killed two terrorists affiliated with Fitna al Hindustan during an intelligence-based operation in the Jausak area of Turbat.

Pakistan Television had also reported that security forces continued operations against terrorists in Balochistan under Raddul Fitna-3.

In Mastung, nine terrorists were killed after they attempted to attack a checkpost, according to the state broadcaster. Heavy weapons, ammunition and three motorcycles were also recovered, it added.

“Operations will continue until the threat is eliminated,” Pakistan TV said, quoting the security forces.

Terrorists killed in gun battle with police

Meanwhile, Balochistan police killed five terrorists in a gun battle in Quetta’s Aghbarg area after terrorists attempted to attack a police station, officials said.

Officials said the terrorists targeted the Aghbarg police station, located on the outskirts of Quetta, in the early hours of Wednesday. Police personnel deployed at the station immediately returned fire.

“In a heavy exchange of fire, five terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan were killed by police,” Saddar Senior Superintendent of Police Shafqat Janjua said. He added that police had foiled the attack and seized weapons and ammunition.

According to Janjua, the attackers arrived in the area on motorcycles before targeting the police station.

Separately, the Edhi Foundation said one of its ambulances was allegedly hijacked by armed men in Balochistan on Wednesday.

In a statement, the foundation said the ambulance was returning to the Edhi Kalat Centre at around 7:15am after transporting the body of a woman from an area near Gidar, about 110 kilometres from Civil Hospital, Kalat.

The foundation said unidentified armed men assaulted the Edhi worker and took control of the ambulance.

On Tuesday, Radio Pakistan reported that six terrorists were killed and nine suspected individuals were arrested during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) by security forces in Balochistan’s Saran Tangi area.

On Monday, security forces killed four more terrorists belonging to a banned organisation in an intelligence-based operation carried out in two areas of Panjgur district.

Last week, security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate operations in Panjgur and Chagai districts.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

According to the report, the operation was conducted under ‘Operation Shaban-2’.

“According to security sources, the operation was conducted against terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan on the basis of intelligence information,” it said.

The state has designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

According to Radio Pakistan, a large cache of ammunition and weapons were also recovered from the possession of the terrorists.

“Security forces are continuing operations against terrorists in the area, which will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated,” it said.

President Asif Ali Zardari commended the “bravery and professional skills” of the security forces for “thwarting the terrorists’ objectives”.

“The war against terrorism resulting from foreign interference will continue,” the president said, adding that Fitna al Hindustan and its facilitators will not succeed in harming Pakistan’s peace and stability.

In a statement on X, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the security forces for the operation, saying they had successfully thwarted the nefarious designs of Fitna al Hindustan

“The brave soldiers of the security forces are the pride of the nation,” Naqvi said, adding: “The nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces for the eradication of terrorism.”

Balochistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks in recent weeks, prompting security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

On Monday, security forces killed four more terrorists belonging to a banned organisation in an intelligence-based operation carried out in two areas of Panjgur district.

Last week, security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate operations in Panjgur and Chagai districts.

Noshki City Station House Office (SHO) Munawar Zaman said the cops were guarding a team of female polio workers taking part in a week-long drive, which began in the province’s 32 districts on Monday, when armed assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on them.

The team and its members were unhurt in the incident, SHO Zaman told Dawn. According to the official, the attackers fled the scene after taking the martyred officials’ weapons.

Following the incident, the anti-polio campaign in the area has been suspended. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack thus far.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi “strongly” condemned the incident, expressing grief over the martyrdom of the two cops, who were identified as constables Muhammad Yasir and Abdul Rauf.

He offered his condolences to the bereaved families, adding: “The attack on the team working to secure the future of our children is a heinous and unforgivable act.”

He vowed exemplary punishment for those who targeted the polio team.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti sought a report on the incident from the provincial Home Department. He paid tribute to the martyred personnel, saying that they had sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

The chief minister said that police investigation was underway to determine the motives behind the incident and identify the elements involved.

“The anti-polio campaign is a national effort to protect children from a dangerous disease, and the safety of the teams associated with this campaign is of utmost importance,” he said.

Pakistan is one of the last two countries in the world, alongside Afghanistan, where polio remains endemic.

Under the week-long campaign which began in Balochistan on Monday, 2.3 million children under five will be inoculated to eliminate the virus from the region.

The vaccination drive comes after recent environmental data showing that two positive environmental samples were detected in the province.

According to officials, security forces launched an IBO on the information about the presence of armed militants in Koh-Prom and the Aphan area of Panjgur district.

“Four armed terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan were killed in the heavy gunbattle during the operation,” they said, adding that a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from the hideouts of the terrorists.

During the last one week, security forces have killed more than 35 terrorists in multiple actions conducted in several parts of Balochistan under the Radd-ul-Fitna operation.

Search for kidnapped Kharan DC continues; two cricketers abducted from Dera Bugti

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti praised the security personnel for the successful operation against militants in Panjgur.

He said that these operations would continue until the complete elimination of terrorism and that the government was pursuing a policy of zero tolerance against elements hostile to the country.

Search operation underway

Meanwhile, investigators have found no clue to the whereabouts of the Kharan deputy commissioner, who was kidnapped alongside three others two days ago.

DC Munir Soomro and three other people were kidnapped as they were travelling in a car the other day.

Officials said that police and other security personnel were searching different areas to recover Mr Soomro, but had made no headway so far.

They said that Mr Soomro was heading to Kharan from Quetta along with his driver, a guard and another person in a private car.

The armed men intercepted his car in Lajah area of Kharan district and took it along with their car. Police said that after receiving information about the missing deputy commissioner, several attempts were made to establish a contact with him through his cellphone, but his phone was found silent.

The provincial administration has involved tribal elders of the area to contact the kidnappers for their safe release, but no progress has been made.

Meanwhile, two local cricketers were kidnapped near the Kachhi Canal area in Dera Bugti.

According to police, Zakir and Wadan Bugti, residents of Sui, were returning home after playing a match in Kandhkot when they were stopped by armed men near the Kachhi Canal area.

After their abduction, security personnel cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

No one has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of the two cricketers so far.

Published in Dawn, September 22nd, 2026

A large number of political workers, traders, businessmen, labourers, students, and civil society activists participated in the demonstration outside the Turbat Press Club. The rally was led by All Parties Kech leaders Fida Jan Buledi, Ghulam Yasin Baloch, Zarif Zedag, Younas Javed, Dr Ali Jan, Advocate Mashkoor Anwar, Mohammad Jan Dashti, Maulana Javed Noumani, and others.

The protesters carried banners and placards demanding restoration of cross-border trade, guaranteed access for locals to the border areas, removal of check-posts between Nasirabad and Hoshab, clearance of road blockades, and withdrawal of taxes imposed on Iranian food items.

Addressing the rally, Mr Buledi said closure of the Iran border was unacceptable as cross-border trade had historically been a major source of livelihood for locals.

Speakers, at the rally, also expressed concerns about the law and order situation in the city.

They presented three key demands: immediate restoration of law and order in Kech, reopening of border trade and all commercial and fuel crossings, and an end to the closure of roads, markets, courts and hospitals in the name of security. They also called for greater space for peaceful political expression.

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2026

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that terrorists belonging to Fitna-al-Hindustan tried to disrupt people’s movement by establishing a checkpost for abduction for ransom, extortion and snatching of vehicles along the N-25 highway, also knows as the Pakistan Expressway, on the night between Sept 18 and Sept 19.

“Security forces responded immediately and after intense fire exchange, five terrorists belonging to India-sponsored proxy of Fitna-al-Hindustan were sent to hell,” the statement said.

The state has designated Balochistan-based groups as Fitna-al-Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan.

According to the ISPR, 23 abductees were recovered from the terrorists’ hideout near Kalat. Six trucks, three buses and two cars were also recovered, as well as large quantities of weapons, ammunition and explosives, the statement said.

“Successful operations by the security forces resulted in thwarting the nefarious designs of India-sponsored proxy of Fitna-al-Hindustan,” it added.

The ISPR said sanitisation operations were ongoing in the surrounding areas to eliminate any remaining terrorists and ensure the safety and security of the local population and national highways.

“The relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’, as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, will continue with full resolve. Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eliminating the menace of foreign-sponsored and foreign-supported terrorism from the country,” the statement concluded.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari commended the security forces for the Kalat operation.

A statement carried by state-run APP said the premier lauded the security forces for their “timely and effective action” and praised their professional capabilities.

He reaffirmed the government’s resolve that decisive anti-terror operations would continue under Azm-i-Istehkam until the end of foreign-sponsored terrorism in the country, APP reported.

President Zardari, in a similar statement, said that the entire nation stood “shoulder to shoulder with its security forces in the fight against terrorism”.

Balochistan has been facing security challenges and terrorism, which has prompted security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

The ISPR and the state media has reported several actions in the province over recent weeks.

On the night of Aug 31-Sept 1, terrorists of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) launched a coordinated attack on the Customs House, located at Ziarat Cross on the N-50 National Highway, in the Pishin district.

In retaliatory action, security forces killed 10 terrorists while two officers were among six martyred in the fire exchange, the military’s media affairs wing said.

Also on August 31, 11 terrorists belonging to Fitna-al-Hindustan, who had blocked the N-40 Quetta-Taftan highway by establishing an illegal checkpoint for extortion in Chagai’s Nokcha area, were killed following an intense exchange of fire.

On September 2, security forces killed 12 terrorists in the Kalat district during an intelligence-based operation (IBO). Days later, the troops killed 11 terrorists and recovered 2.9 tonnes of explosives during separate IBOs in Kharan and Washuk districts.

Another 36 terrorists were eliminated during multiple “high-tempo” operations conducted in Mastung, Quetta, Kalat and Sibi districts, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on September 4. These also included thwarting an attack on a police station in Sibi’s Bhag area.

On Thursday, seven terrorists were killed by security forces in an IBO in the Badrang area of Balochistan’s Awaran district, while seven terrorists were killed during two IBOs in the province’s Panjgur and Kachhi districts on Friday, the state media reported.

The killing of 11 more terrorists by security forces in Panjgur and Chagai districts under Operation Raddul Fitna 3 was reported on Saturday.

Inamul Haque, coordinator for the Emergency Operation Centre in Balochistan, said preparations for the campaign had been completed, with a total of 9,193 teams being deployed. The deployment includes 621 fixed-site teams and 392 transit-point teams.

The campaign will continue for seven days and cover the province’s 32 designated districts. The vaccination drive follows recent environmental data showing that two positive environmental samples were detected in Balochistan.

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2026

A central spokesperson for the group argued that monumental decisions concerning the region’s political future cannot be made by a university administration or in closed meetings involving a few individuals.

The BSO questioned the administration’s authority to pass a resolution on a purely political issue, especially given strict restrictions on student political activities, organizational programs and freedom of expression on campuses.

“If students are subjected to restrictions on political expression, the administration of the University of Makran, Panjgur, must explain under what authority it passed a resolution on the division of Balochistan,” the spokesperson said, describing the situation as a double standard.

The spokesperson noted that Balochistan is not merely an administrative unit on a map, but a homeland inherently linked to the history, identity and collective existence of the Baloch people. Any decisions regarding the region should be made through democratic, constitutional processes, he added.

The BSO demanded the university clarify the legal or institutional authority empowering it to adopt the resolution. Universities are centers of education, research and dialogue, the group maintained, and creating a political justification for dividing Balochistan is not part of their mandate.

Published in Dawn, September 20th, 2026

The operations were conducted under Operation Raddul Fitna 3.

In Panjgur’s Gowargo area, security forces neutralised five terrorists and recovered a large quantity of weapons and ammunition from their possession, according to the report.

Meanwhile, six terrorists were killed during operations in the Aminabad and Siah Chang areas of Chagai district, it added.

A significant cache of arms and explosive material was also seized during the operations.

According to state-run APP, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for their successful operations against terrorists.

The interior minister said the “security forces had once again thwarted the intentions of terrorists through effective action”.

The actions carried out by the security forces reflected their commitment to safeguarding national security, Naqvi was quoted as saying.

He said the successful operations demonstrated the forces’ resolve to confront threats and maintain stability.

Balochistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks in recent weeks, prompting security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

The number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

On the night of Aug 31-Sept 1, terrorists of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) launched a coordinated attack on the Customs House, located at Ziarat Cross on the N-50 National Highway, in the Pishin district.

In retaliatory action, security forces killed 10 terrorists while two officers were among six martyred in the fire exchange, according to the military’s media affairs wing.

Also on August 31, 11 terrorists belonging to Fitna-al-Hindustan, who had blocked the N-40 Quetta-Taftan highway by establishing an illegal checkpoint for extortion in Chagai’s Nokcha area, were killed following an intense exchange of fire.

On September 2, security forces killed 12 terrorists in the Kalat district during an intelligence-based operation (IBO). Days later, the troops killed 11 terrorists and recovered 2.9 tonnes of explosives during separate IBOs in Kharan and Washuk districts.

Another 36 terrorists were eliminated during multiple “high-tempo” operations conducted in Mastung, Quetta, Kalat and Sibi districts, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on September 4. These also included thwarting an attack on a police station in Sibi’s Bhag area.

On Thursday, seven terrorists were killed by security forces in an IBO in the Badrang area of Balochistan’s Awaran district.

On Friday, security forces killed seven terrorists during two IBOs in the province’s Panjgur and Kachhi districts.

QUETTA: Calling for stronger coordination between government institutions and civil society to counter security threats and address the underlying challenges facing the province, Balo­ch­istan Home Minister Ziaullah Langove has said intelligence agencies had obtained evidence of alleged financial links between individuals in various quarters and outlawed terrorist outfits.

The minister expressed these views at a roundtable conference in Quetta on Friday when the state media reported that security forces killed seven terrorists in intelligence-based operations.

Some elements in the government, political gro­ups and even non-governmental organisations were found providing facilitation to militancy, he said. “Militant groups were raising funds through extortion from traders, farmers and commercial transporters, as well as highway robberies, looting and ransom demands,” he added.

The home minister said two Hazara community members had been released after payment of Rs7 million ransom.

At the roundtable conference, which was jointly organised by the Baloch­istan Centre of Excel­le­n­­ce, the Balochistan Home Department and the Pak­istan Poverty Alleviation Fund, various proposals were presented to impro­­ve inter-institutional co­­or­­dination, strengthen social development initiatives and formulate joint strategies for resolving issues confronting local communities.

The participants emp­h­asised that sustained progress in Balochistan req­u­ired collective efforts, ef­­f­e­­­ctive coordination and clo­­ser engagement among state institutions, development organisations and ci­­vil society. They discussed security con­­cerns, institutional coordination, soc­ial development and public welfare. They stressed that stronger cooperation bet­w­e­­en government dep­artments, dev­elop­ment ins­­titutions and civil society was essential for addr­essing public problems and ensuring sustainable development.

IBOs in Panjgur, Kachhi

Earlier, state broadcaster Radio Pakis­tan citing sources reported that security forces killed seven terrorists during two intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Balochistan. Five of the terrorists were killed in the Fateh Ali area of Panjgur district, the report said, adding that large quantities of weapons and ammunition were found in their possession.

Another IBO was conducted in the Dha­dar area of Kachhi district, during which two terrorists, were killed, it added.

Several other militants were injured during the operation, according to the report.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2026

The announcement was made during a meeting chaired by Commissioner of Quetta Division Zeeshan Lashari to review the provision and improvement of facilities under the Green Bus Service.

The operating agency briefed the participants on the service’s routes, bus stops, operational arrangements and facilities available to commuters.

Officials said 25 Green Buses are currently operating in Quetta, including four buses reserved exclusively for women.

Female staff have also been deployed on the women-only buses to provide female passengers with safer and more convenient travel.

The service currently operates on four routes from 7am to 9pm, with several bus stops established along the routes. Around 40 stops have been established on the Kuchlak route, while approximately 50 stops connect the Metropolitan area with Sariab Road.

The meeting was also info­rmed that the Green Bus Service has been extended to Turbat, where four buses are currently operating.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2026

Police said Assistant Accounts Officer Ghayoor Buzdar was targeted near his residence after he returned home from dropping his children at school in Jinnah Town.

“The assailants were waiting for the deceased near his house. He sustained multiple bullet injuries and succumbed to his injuries on the spot,” police said, adding that the armed men fled the scene after the shooting.

Police rushed to the site after receiving information about the killing and shifted the body to Civil Hospital. The body was handed over to the family after completion of legal formalities.

Police registered a case against unidentified assailants and launched an investigation. The motive for the killing was not immediately known.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2026

Police officials said five of the bullet-riddled bodies were found in the Gwargo area of Panjgur on Friday. People in Gwargo informed the local administration about the dumping of the bodies in the area.

After receiving the information, police rushed to the area, took the bodies into custody, and shifted them to the Panjgur district hospital.

Police, quoting hospital sources, said multiple bullet marks were found on the bodies of all five people.

Two of the five bodies were identified as Shafiq, son of Dada Muhammad, and Saleem Kata.

Meanwhile, three bodies were found in the Kuldan area of the Jiwani sub-division in Gwadar district.

Police said residents spotted the bodies in the Kuldan area, prompting officers to rush to the site and shift the remains to rural health centres after taking them into custody.

The deceased were later identified, and their bodies were handed over to their families after legal formalities. They include Ahsan, a resident of Jiwani; Nadil, a resident of Panwan, Jiwani; and Hassan Rafiq, a resident of Turbat.

Sources revealed that one of the deceased, Ahsan, had reportedly been taken into custody from his house in Jiwani on the night of Jan 21 this year and had been missing since.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2026

Five of the terrorists were killed in the Fateh Ali area of Panjgur district, the report said, adding that large quantities of weapons and ammunition were found in their possession.

Meanwhile, an IBO was conducted in the Dhadar area of Kachhi district, during which two terrorists, were killed, it added.

Several other terrorists were also reportedly injured during the operation, according to the report.

Balochistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks in recent weeks, prompting security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations.

Last month, the number of terrorist attacks in the province increased by seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August, according to a monthly assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.

On the night of Aug 31-Sept 1, terrorists of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) launched a coordinated attack on the Customs House, located at Ziarat Cross on the N-50 National Highway, in the Pishin district.

In retaliatory action, security forces killed 10 terrorists while two officers were among six martyred in the fire exchange, according to the military’s media affairs wing.

Also on August 31, 11 terrorists belonging to Fitna-al-Hindustan, who had blocked the N-40 Quetta-Taftan highway by establishing an illegal checkpoint for extortion in Chagai’s Nokcha area, were killed following an intense exchange of fire.

On September 2, security forces killed 12 terrorists in the Kalat district during an IBO. Days later, the troops killed 11 terrorists and recovered 2.9 tonnes of explosives during separate IBOs in Kharan and Washuk districts.

Another 36 terrorists were eliminated during multiple “high-tempo” operations conducted in Mastung, Quetta, Kalat and Sibi districts, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on September 4. These also included thwarting an attack on a police station in Sibi’s Bhag area.

On Thursday, seven terrorists were killed by security forces in an IBO in the Badrang area of Balochistan’s Awaran district.