• FC, Police present 17 terror suspects before media
Three people were killed in an exchange of fire with the security forces in Panjgur area of Balochistan on Saturday.
Sources said the action was ongoing since Friday, adding that during the search operation conducted in the area, security forces surrounded a compound from where armed men started shooting.
The exchange of fire lasted several hours during which the armed men also attempted to escape.
Three of the militants were killed in retaliatory fire from security forces personnel; two Klashnikovs, a pistol and other ammunition were also recovered from the compound.
It was not clear whether there were any other men present at the compound or if the security forces took any men into custody, sources said.
As part of joint search operation carried by the police and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel across various areas of Mastung, at least 17 terrorist suspects were captured and presented before media.
Colonel Muhammad Azam of Frontier Corps (FC) briefed the reporters saying a massive search operation was carried out jointly at various areas of Mastung including Dareen Garh, Kanak, Babari, Kandhawa, Umerabad, Nawazan, Besham, Koshak, Dolai and Kali Nihal on the direction of Balochistan provincial government.
The colonel said that forces have surrounded the area with the help of check-posts installed at entry and exit points of the area. At least 350 FC personnel have participated in the operation that is being carried out with the help of 2 helicopters and armor vehicles among other weapons.
According to Colonel Azam targeted operations across various areas. At least 90 suspects were arrested in the search operation carried out on Saturday, out of which, 73 were released after questioning and preliminary investigation whereas the remaining 17 were booked under terrorism charges and presented before the media.
After consultation with the federal government, Government of Balochistan had ordered a massive operation against the miscreants in Mastung after the killing of 29 shiite Hazaras by the terrorists.
Balochistan has been under the grip of sectarian violence and attacks by Baloch separatists and unknown elements for over a decade, with scores of people having lost their lives in sectarian bombings and target killings.
