by Press Trust of IndiaAt least six Pakistani soldiers and as many militants were killed in an encounter between security forces and militants in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province on Saturday.
According to an army statement, insurgents attacked a paramilitary Frontier Corps compound in the Muslim Bagh area of the province, triggering a hostage situation.
It said the evacuation began on Friday evening after the initial attack by the terrorists was foiled and was completed on Saturday morning.
“All the six terrorists in the compound, who were well-equipped, have been sent to hell,” the army said, adding that necessary intelligence follow-up was done to trace their links and arrest facilitators and expose their sponsors. Will continue for
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It said the complex evacuation operation included a hostage rescue operation as well as rescuing three families from a residential block.
“The terrorists have not spared even children for their horrific approach,” the army said.
It added that six soldiers and a civilian were killed, while six people, including a woman, were injured. It added that the security forces are determined to thwart all attempts to harm the peace, stability and progress of Balochistan.
The area is facing an attack by militants, who attacked a checkpoint of security forces in Hoshab area of the province on Friday night.
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According to the Army, after successfully foiling the attack, the fleeing terrorists were taken to the mountains near Balor using aerial surveillance means.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the death of six Pakistani Army soldiers and one civilian.
According to a statement, the prime minister said the armed forces were committed to completely eliminate the menace of terrorism. He said that the entire country stands with the security forces.