Quetta: Eight killed in CTD operation in Darakhshan area

WEB DESK: At least eight suspected militants were killed during a counterterrorism operation carried out by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in the Darakhshan area of Quetta, a spokesperson for the department confirmed.

According to the CTD spokesperson, the operation led to an exchange of fire between security personnel and armed suspects, resulting in the deaths of eight militants. Three CTD officials were also injured during the gun battle.

Authorities said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the possession of the deceased suspects.

The spokesperson added that the slain individuals were believed to be affiliated with a banned organisation. Further investigation into the incident is under way.

More than 1600 suspects arrested

Earlier in February, security forces and police in Balochistan arrested more than 1,600 suspects in targeted operations carried out across the province in recent months, officials said. According to the Home Department, 1,627 individuals were detained, including 412 linked to terrorism, 187 involved in targeted killings, and 319 associated with extortion and kidnapping.

Authorities recovered over 1,200 weapons, 428 vehicles, narcotics, counterfeit currency and communication equipment during intelligence-based raids in multiple districts. Inspector General Rao Sardar Ali Khan termed the crackdown a major blow to militant and criminal networks, vowing operations would continue to restore law and order.