23 abductees freed near Kalat in Pakistan — Dawn
Pakistani security forces said five militants were killed and 23 abducted people were freed during an operation near the city of Kalat in Balochistan province. The operation took place on the N-25 highway linking Karachi and Chaman, Dawn reports, citing Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Operation on the N-25 highway
According to the ISPR, on the night of September 18–19, a group that the Pakistani military calls Fitna-al-Hindustan set up an illegal checkpoint on the N-25 highway. There, according to the military, people were abducted for ransom, money was extorted, and vehicles were seized.
The military said that security forces responded immediately, after which an intense firefight took place. According to the ISPR, five members of the group were killed as a result, while 23 abducted people were freed from their hideout near Kalat.
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Transport and weapons
Security forces also reported the recovery of six trucks, three buses, and two cars. According to the ISPR, a significant quantity of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was found in the hideout.
The Pakistani state uses the name Fitna-al-Hindustan for groups based in Balochistan to emphasize India’s alleged role in terrorism and the destabilization of the country. The source presents claims of India’s involvement as the position of the Pakistani side.
The ISPR said search-and-clearance operations are continuing in adjacent areas to identify other members of the group and ensure the security of national highways. According to an assessment by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, the number of terrorist attacks in Balochistan rose from 83 in July to 89 in August, or by 7%.
