QUETTA: Security forces foiled an attempt by a group calling itself “Fitna Al‑Hindustan” to impose a blockade in the Dalbandin sector along the M‑40 on Wednesday, officials said, in a fierce exchange of gunfire that left seven militants dead.
According to military sources, the militants moved to block the M‑40, a strategic route in western Balochistan, with the aim of disrupting movement and supply lines. Troops engaged the group after receiving intelligence of the plot; an intense firefight ensued, during which seven attackers were killed and several weapons and explosives were recovered.
There are said to be casualties on part of the security forces, their identities and unit details were to be released after next‑of‑kin notifications, authorities added.
Major breakthrough in Yakmach, Dalbandin.
Fresh footage captures security forces neutralizing 7 Fitna al Hindustan terrorists during a high-stakes operation today. This strike deals a massive blow to terror networks in the region. Balochistan stands united with our defenders… https://t.co/pFXI5dRAjX pic.twitter.com/JRZc8eH0mC
— Behram Khan (@behram_91khan) April 23, 2026
“The cowardly attempts of Fitna Al‑Hindustan in Balochistan have once again been foiled,” a statement from local authorities said, reaffirming a commitment to continue operations against militants “until the last enemy is eliminated.” The statement warned that Balochistan would not tolerate such activities and vowed to turn hostile enclaves into safe zones.
It is pertinent to mention here that Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest and least populated province, has for decades been affected by a mix of separatist insurgency, sectarian violence and militant activity. Armed groups—ranging from nationalist insurgents demanding greater autonomy and control over local resources to Islamist militant outfits—have carried out attacks on security installations, infrastructure and convoys, particularly along major transit routes such as the M‑40.
Security operations intensified in recent years as the military and paramilitary forces sought to secure highways, protect development projects and counter cross‑border militant movements. While periodic operations have yielded arrests and targeted strikes against militant leadership, sporadic attacks and attempts to disrupt supply lines continue to pose security challenges in remote districts.
