Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 Concludes in Balochistan, 216 Terrorists Killed: ISPR

Pakistan’s security forces have concluded Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 in Balochistan following a wave of terrorist attacks, the military’s media wing said on Thursday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the intelligence-based operation targeted Indian-sponsored terrorist networks operating in the province and resulted in the killing of 216 militants. The campaign involved coordinated actions by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and intelligence services.

The ISPR said the terrorists were involved in attacks on civilians, including women and children, with the aim of undermining peace, development and stability in Balochistan. Security forces launched the operation after receiving verified intelligence about imminent threats in Panjgur and the outskirts of Harnai district on January 29, 2026.

During the initial phase, 41 militants linked to Indian proxy networks were eliminated after raids on identified hideouts. The military said subsequent attempts by Fitna al-Hindustan — the term used for Balochistan-based terrorist outfits — to destabilise the province were successfully repelled.

A broader series of intelligence-based operations was later carried out across multiple areas to dismantle sleeper cells through sustained combing and clearance efforts. As a result, the military said the leadership, command structure and operational capabilities of the terrorist networks were significantly degraded.

State media earlier reported that 197 militants had been killed during the operations. Official figures confirm that 22 security personnel were martyred, while 36 civilians, including women and children, lost their lives.

Security forces also recovered a large cache of foreign-origin weapons, ammunition and explosives. Preliminary assessments indicated systematic external facilitation and logistical support for the terrorist groups.

The ISPR paid tribute to the martyred personnel, saying the nation honoured their courage, professionalism and sacrifices in defence of Pakistan’s territorial integrity. It reaffirmed the armed forces’ resolve to continue counterterrorism operations under the National Action Plan until all terrorist threats are eliminated.

President Asif Ali Zardari also lauded the security forces for the successful completion of the operation, saying their timely action had foiled a malicious attempt to sabotage peace in Balochistan. He reiterated that eliminating terrorism backed by external support remained a top national priority and praised the effectiveness of coordinated, intelligence-driven operations.