QUETTA: The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Balochistan on Monday killed five suspected terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in the Dasht area of Mastung district, officials said. The operation aimed to foil an alleged terror plan by the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
A CTD spokesperson said that intelligence indicated a group of armed BLA militants had taken positions near Dasht with plans to block the Quetta–Sibi Highway and target security forces and civilian traffic. Acting on the information, CTD Quetta teams established surveillance in the area.
“Upon encountering CTD personnel, the militants opened indiscriminate fire, prompting a heavy exchange of fire,” the spokesperson said. During the operation, five suspected terrorists were shot dead, while others managed to escape, taking advantage of the rugged, mountainous terrain.
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Authorities recovered arms and ammunition from the slain militants, including five sub-machine guns with live rounds, seven hand grenades, and three motorcycles.
Acting swiftly on the information, CTD Quetta teams moved into the area and established surveillance.https://t.co/dx8f7DMNTV
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) January 20, 2026
“Search and combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing militants and dismantle the remaining network,” the spokesperson added. The bodies of the deceased were shifted to SPHQ Hospital Quetta, and an FIR is being registered at the CTD police station in Quetta.
The CTD said the operation was part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in Balochistan to prevent attacks on security forces and civilians along key highways and strategic areas.
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