Pakistan says seven militants killed in Balochistan operation

Pakistani security forces killed seven militants in an intelligence-led operation in Kharan district of Balochistan, according to Pakistani security sources, who said the group was backed by India.

The operation was carried out in the Lajai area after intelligence indicated that militants were present there, the sources said.

The seven men were identified by the sources as members of what Pakistani authorities call Fitna al-Khawarij, a designation used by Pakistan for militant groups it considers responsible for attacks in the country. The sources said several other militants were wounded, but did not provide a figure or details on their condition.

Weapons and ammunition were also seized from what the sources described as a militant hideout.

According to the Pakistani account, the group had been preparing to carry out extortion and kidnappings, as well as targeted killings and suicide attacks. The authorities did not provide further details about the alleged plans or identify the wounded.

Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of supporting militant groups operating in Balochistan. India has denied such allegations, and the claim of Indian backing in this latest operation has not been independently verified.

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, has faced a long-running insurgency involving separatist groups as well as attacks by other militant organisations. Kharan has previously been the site of Pakistani security operations against suspected militants.

The latest operation comes amid continued counter-militancy efforts across Balochistan, where Pakistani authorities say security forces are targeting armed groups and their networks.