Terrorist commander killed in Balochistan IBO

Security forces have killed a suspected terrorist commander during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Qila Saifullah district of Balochistan

Security forces have killed a suspected terrorist commander during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Qila Saifullah district of Balochistan, state-run media reported on Sunday.

The commander was identified as Adil Shah, alias Darvesh, who was affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), referred to by the state as Fitna al Khwarij.

According to security sources, Adil Shah had been associated with the militant group since December 2020. He reportedly began managing the group’s financial affairs in 2024 and was involved in facilitating permanent accommodation for foreign militants in Balochistan’s Zhob, Sherani and Shaban areas.

The report said the commander had also been involved in attacks on security forces and kidnappings for ransom since 2022. A total of 19 first information reports (FIRs) had been registered against him, while a bounty of Rs2.5 million had been announced for his arrest.

Security forces are continuing counterterrorism operations across Balochistan under Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-3. Security sources reiterated that the operations would continue until all terrorists were eliminated.

Balochistan has faced persistent security challenges and a series of militant attacks in recent years.

On October 19, an army major was martyred and four terrorists were killed during intelligence-based operations in the province. A day earlier, security forces killed eight militants described by authorities as India-sponsored during operations in Quetta, Nushki and Khuzdar.

On October 14, five terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation in Washuk district. Earlier, on October 10, the Counter-Terrorism Department killed 10 terrorists during a targeted operation in Barkhan district.