QUETTA — Security forces have eliminated 50 militants in a series of engagements along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The operations, conducted in Balochistan’s Zhob district from August 7 to 11, targeted armed groups attempting to infiltrate from Afghan territory.

Border Clash in Sambaza

The ISPR reported that between August 7 and 9, troops intercepted and killed 47 militants in the Sambaza area. A follow-up sweep on the night of August 10–11 neutralised three more fighters, described as “Indian-sponsored” terrorists linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Weapons and ammunition were recovered during the raids.

Officials referred to the slain fighters as khawarij, a term used for violent extremist groups, and said the coordinated actions had prevented a major cross-border incursion.

Deadly Ambush Near Iran Border

While the Sambaza operation concluded successfully, tragedy struck hundreds of kilometres away in Balochistan’s Washuk district on Monday night. Militants ambushed a security convoy in the Basima area, killing nine personnel — including an officer — and wounding six others.

Security sources said the attackers opened heavy fire on three vehicles, triggering an hour-long gun battle. Casualties were also reported among the assailants, though numbers remain unconfirmed.

Shortly after, the same group attempted to storm a police station recently transferred to civilian control. Officers on site repelled the assault after a 30-minute exchange of fire, leaving three policemen injured. Blood trails and an abandoned motorbike indicated losses on the attackers’ side.

Leaders Praise Forces’ Efforts

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued separate statements lauding the forces for “eliminating 50 Indian-sponsored terrorists” and commending their professionalism and resolve in defending the nation.

U.S. Declares BLA and Majeed Brigade as Terrorist Groups

Pakistan’s Foreign Office welcomed the U.S. decision to formally designate the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and its suicide unit, the Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organisations. The move aligns with Pakistan’s long-standing position that both outfits pose a significant threat to national security.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari hailed the development as an endorsement of Pakistan’s stance, urging the United Nations to adopt a similar declaration to restrict international funding for such groups.

Grenade and Bomb Attacks in Sibi, Quetta

Elsewhere in the province, violence persisted. In Sibi, a grenade attack near the Government Girls College injured a police officer on Monday night. Authorities said the assailant escaped on a motorcycle.

In Quetta, a roadside bomb on Link Badini Road narrowly missed a police patrol, instead damaging a passing civilian car. The driver escaped unharmed. No group has claimed responsibility for either incident.