Multiple Attacks Target Police Station and Banks
At least 12 terrorists were killed after security forces successfully repelled a series of coordinated attacks on government and commercial buildings in Kharan City, northwestern Balochistan, according to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The ISPR stated that 15 to 20 terrorists, affiliated with the India-sponsored Fitna al-Hindustan, targeted the Kharan City police station, National Bank of Pakistan, and Habib Bank Limited. During the attacks, the assailants looted Rs3.4 million from the banks and attempted to take hostages at the police station. The hostage-taking attempt was thwarted due to the timely and effective response of security forces.
Swift Security Response and Ongoing Operations
Security forces engaged the attackers at multiple locations, killing several terrorists on the spot, while others were neutralised in follow-up engagements. Mop-up operations are ongoing in Kharan and surrounding areas to ensure complete clearance.
The ISPR reiterated that under the National Action Plan and the federally approved vision Azm-e-Istihkam, security forces remain committed to eliminating foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
Chief Minister Praises Forces, Warns of Criminal Shift
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti praised the swift action of security forces, confirming that one civilian was injured during the operation and is receiving treatment at the Combined Military Hospital.
He noted that four terrorists were killed immediately at three separate locations, with the remaining attackers eliminated during subsequent operations. CM Bugti warned of a worrying trend, stating that terrorist groups are increasingly shifting from ideological violence to organised criminal activities, including bank robberies.
“Whenever they come onto the streets, they will be defeated, and whenever they try to hide, intelligence-based operations will hunt them down,” he said.
Concerns Over Digital Infrastructure in Remote Areas
The chief minister also raised concerns about mobile internet infrastructure in remote regions of Balochistan, questioning the installation of 4G towers in sparsely populated areas such as Sangan. He cautioned that unchecked expansion of digital networks could pose security risks and called for clarity on authorisations behind such installations.
To address connectivity needs while maintaining oversight, CM Bugti announced a Rs3 billion provincial project to expand fibre optic connectivity linking schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals across Balochistan.
Regional Context and Cross-Border Militant Presence
Linking the security challenges to broader regional developments, CM Bugti said the situation has worsened since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. He cited official figures showing that more than 75,000 intelligence-based operations were conducted nationwide in 2025, resulting in the elimination of over 2,500 terrorists.
International assessments, including reports by the UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, have highlighted Afghanistan’s role as a staging ground for transnational militant groups—claims denied by the Kabul authorities but disputed by UN member states.
Presidential Tribute to Security Forces
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the security forces and law enforcement agencies for thwarting the attacks. Commending their professionalism and timely response, he reaffirmed the state’s resolve against anti-national elements.
“The evil intentions of these forces will be foiled at all costs,” the president said. “The state will continue to respond to such threats with full force.
