Balochistan Conflict: 18 FC Soldiers Killed Amid Terror Operations
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Synopsis
On February 1, Pakistan's military confirmed that 18 Frontier Corps soldiers were killed in an operation against terrorists in Mangocher, Balochistan. The ISPR reported that security forces successfully eliminated 12 attackers during the incident. The ongoing violence poses significant challenges for Pakistan's security forces as they fight against multiple terrorist factions.
Key Takeaways
- 18 soldiers lost their lives in Balochistan operations.
- Security forces thwarted a terrorist plot in Mangocher.
- ISPR confirmed elimination of 12 terrorists.
- Ongoing violence affects security in Balochistan and KP.
- Pakistan calls for action against TTP and BLA from Afghanistan.
Islamabad, Feb 1 (NationPress) A minimum of 18 soldiers from Pakistan's Frontier Corps (FC) were reported deceased following an operation in Mangocher, a city within the Kalat District of Balochistan province, as confirmed by military officials on Saturday.
"During the night of January 31/February 1, terrorists attempted to create roadblocks in Mangocher, Kalat District, Balochistan. Security forces and law enforcement agencies were swiftly mobilized, successfully countering their plans and eliminating 12 terrorists, thereby safeguarding the local community," stated a communication from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media branch of the Pakistani military.
However, the statement also noted that 18 soldiers lost their lives in this operation.
ISPR mentioned that security personnel are currently conducting a thorough clearance of the area, assuring that the "facilitators and abettors" of this "despicable and cowardly act" will face justice.
This incident follows closely behind another operation where security forces eliminated 10 terrorists across five intelligence-based counter-terrorism operations in various regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province.
Pakistan has consistently asserted that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and separatist factions in Balochistan, including the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), are receiving ongoing support from Afghanistan. The Shehbaz Sharif administration has urged the Afghan Taliban regime to take decisive and prompt action against these anti-Pakistan elements operating from Afghan territory.
Islamabad maintains that terrorist factions in Balochistan are intent on disrupting regional peace by targeting innocent civilians.
"The security forces of Pakistan remain unwavering in their commitment to thwarting efforts aimed at undermining peace, stability, and progress in Balochistan, and the sacrifices of our brave soldiers further fortify our determination," added the ISPR statement.
Since the return of the Afghan Taliban to power in Kabul in 2021, Pakistan has experienced a significant increase in terrorist assaults targeting security personnel and foreign nationals, particularly in Balochistan and KP provinces.
2024 marked one of the deadliest years for the nation, with no less than 685 security personnel killed in 444 terror attacks.
According to data compiled by the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CRSS), there were approximately 1,612 casualties among civilians and security personnel combined in 2024, while 934 outlaws were neutralized.
The total casualties for 2024 represent the highest figures seen over the past decade, averaging to seven fatalities each day.
KP and Balochistan endured the most severe impacts from terrorist activities last year, with around 1,601 casualties recorded in KP and 782 in Balochistan due to 1,166 terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations.
The ongoing series of significant terror assaults continues into 2025, presenting a major challenge to Pakistani security forces and their operations.
