Quetta, August 12, 2025 — Security forces in Pakistan’s troubled Balochistan province have captured three additional “India-backed” terror suspects during a targeted operation in Sambaza area of Zhob district overnight between August 10-11, bringing their total of militants eliminated since anti-infiltration sweep began four days prior to 50 total according to Inter Services Public Relations media branch (ISPR). (Geo News/Dunya News). This marks an intensification of four day offensive, Geo News and Dunya News for instance). Geo News/Dunya News/ Escalation Of Four Day Offensive
Security forces intercepted an attempted infiltration attempt and were successful in neutralizing 33 militants, according to Geo News and Dunya News sources. The operation started early August 7-8 when security forces successfully foiled it, clearing away 33 militants. [Facebook/Geo News/Dunya News].
On August 8-9, a “deliberate sanitization operation” saw 14 more militants killed, raising the death toll to 47. Dawn’s +2 news service as reported by Dunya News +2.
Geo News reports: On August 10-11, three more terrorists were neutralized bringing the total to 50.
Weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from those killed, who are described by military authorities as belonging to “Fitna al-Khawarij,” an umbrella term for militants affiliated with Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Al Jazeera; Geo News and Dawn each reported on these developments as follows.
Official Reaction and Strategic Significance Both Pakistan’s military and political leadership have welcomed this operation as a significant victory against cross-border terrorism, hailing the security forces for their swift response. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both applauded these forces’ swift actions.
Dunya News In a public statement issued by ISPR on August 21, they reiterated their dedication to safeguarding Pakistan’s borders and foil attempts at undermining peace, stability and progress of Pakistan. Geo News
Dawn [1 September].
Context of Infiltration Threats
Pakistan has grown increasingly concerned over militant infiltration from Afghanistan since Taliban rule returned in 2021, prompting this recent offensive by military authorities in their nation.
AP News +2
Geo News (+2).
The TTP and affiliated groups have taken full advantage of the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan by using its porous borders as safe havens.
Political and Strategic Implications
Branding the militants as “India-backed” plays into geopolitical tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi, with Pakistan frequently accusing India of secretly supporting anti-state elements despite evidence to the contrary being provided. Wikipedia +15 AP News +15 => Dawn News.
Pakistan’s recent operation against Zhob militants underscores their intent to exert control over border areas and deter future infiltration attempts, especially those happening in areas like Balochistan where insurgent activity has targeted security forces and infrastructure.
x.com | Dawn | Key Facts at a Glance (AP News/Dawn)…
Initial Operational Plan to Prevent Infiltration in Sambaza, Zhob 33 This operation took place August 7-8th to 11th 2025 with Sanitization Sweep to Clear Surrounding Areas 14 Its Final Mopup in Sambaza Area Three Total Four-day Anti-infiltration Operation 50
‘Operation Raza Khan’ not only neutralized immediate threats, but also sent a strong signal about Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its borders in light of evolving regional security dynamics.