Eighteen soldiers of the Frontier Corps embraced martyrdom while thwarting a terrorist attack in the Mangocher area of Kalat district, Balochistan, during the night of January 31 and February 1.
According to security sources, terrorists attempted to establish illegal roadblocks in the region, aiming to disrupt the peaceful environment of Balochistan. Acting on the behest of "inimical and hostile forces", the attackers targeted innocent civilians in a cowardly act of terror.
The security forces and law enforcement agencies responded swiftly to the situation, launching an immediate counter-operation. The forces successfully neutralized the threat, killing 12 terrorists and ensuring the safety of the local populace.
"Our brave sons fought gallantly, making the ultimate sacrifice for the protection of their fellow citizens," the statement read, highlighting the heroic efforts of the martyred soldiers.
Following the intense operation, security forces initiated comprehensive sanitization efforts in the area to track down and apprehend the remaining perpetrators, facilitators, and abettors involved in the attack.
The armed forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the peace, stability, and progress of Balochistan. "Such sacrifices of our brave soldiers only strengthen our resolve to defeat terrorism and its evil designs," the statement concluded.
The nation mourns the loss of its heroes, whose courage and dedication continue to inspire resilience against all threats to Pakistan's sovereignty.
On the other hand, the security forces conducted several sanitization operations in Balochistan, killing 11 terrorists in one such in the Harnai district of Balochistan. Several terrorist hideouts were also destroyed during the operation, as per the Inter-Services Public Relations.
This way, the forces have eliminated 23 terrorists in Balochistan in 24 hours.
President Asif Zardari strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Kalat. He expressed deep grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of 18 Frontier Corps (FC) personnel. The president paid tribute to the martyrs for their timely and brave action against the terrorists.
He also praised the security forces for eliminating 12 terrorists during the operation. The president prayed for the martyrs and patience for their grieving families. “Terrorist elements aim to disrupt peace in Balochistan, but security forces will continue to operate to suppress these anti-national elements,” Zardari stated.
He emphasized that the people of Pakistan reject all elements attempting to disrupt peace in the country. “The entire nation stands with its security forces in the fight against terrorism,” he added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Kalat district, expressing profound grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of 18 security personnel. The PM prayed for the departed souls.
Commending the bravery of the security forces, he praised the officers and personnel for successfully eliminating 12 terrorists during the operation. "Terrorists are the enemies of peace and development in Balochistan," he stated, adding, "Our fight against the menace of terrorism will continue until it is completely eradicated from the country."
The PM further affirmed, "The entire nation, including myself, stands firmly with our brave forces in the war against terrorism."
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for successfully eliminating 12 terrorists in Mangocher. He expressed heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the families of the martyred soldiers. “The nation’s 18 brave sons have achieved immortality by sacrificing their lives for the country,” said Naqvi.
He highlighted the pride the nation feels in the bravery of the martyred soldiers, calling them true heroes of the nation. “The sacrifices of our security forces in the war against terrorism are deeply appreciated by the nation,” he added.
Naqvi also acknowledged the security forces' role in foiling the nefarious plans of the terrorists, reaffirming that the nation stands firmly with its forces.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Kalat, expressing deep sorrow over the martyrdom of 18 Frontier Corps (FC) personnel. She conveyed heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the families of the martyrs, stating, "The sacrifices of these brave souls will further strengthen our resolve to eliminate terrorism."
"The entire nation stands united with the Pakistan Army and security agencies in the fight against terrorism," she emphasized.
Paying tribute to the fallen heroes, she remarked, "Those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of our homeland are our greatest heroes."
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to the security forces for their successful operation in Balochistan. He expressed sorrow over the martyrdom of 18 soldiers and prayed for them. “The security forces have made great sacrifices to establish peace in the country, and their sacrifices will always be remembered,” Shah said.
He added, “The nation will forever honor its brave sons. Terrorists are a grave threat to the country’s security, and they will soon meet their end.”
Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) President Abdul Aleem Khan paid rich tribute to the 18 security personnel who sacrificed their lives during the Kalat operation. "These 18 brave young men laid down their lives for the motherland, and their sacrifices will not go in vain," he said.
He expressed his condolences and appreciation for the timely action of the security forces in repelling the terrorist attack. "May Allah Almighty elevate the ranks of the martyrs. We share the grief of the bereaved families and stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time," he added.
Praising the national security agencies, Abdul Aleem Khan stated, "Our brave sons of the soil have fulfilled their promise to protect the nation. Their sacrifices are a debt repaid in honour, and they will always be remembered."
