At least 18 terrorists have been killed in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province after a vehicle-borne bomb being prepared by suspected terrorists detonated prematurely, the army said.
The initial blast occurred in the Surab district on Wednesday, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing.
Eight terrorists were killed in the explosion, while several others were wounded.
Three civilians were also killed after the initial blast triggered a secondary explosion involving other explosives allegedly stored at the site, the army said.
Counter-terror operation follows blast
Security forces launched a counter-terrorism operation following the explosion, killing 10 additional terrorists, according to the ISPR.
Two Pakistani soldiers were wounded during an exchange of fire with the terrorists, the statement added.
Authorities did not identify the terrorist group involved or provide further details about the intended target of the vehicle-borne explosive.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has experienced persistent terrorist violence in recent years.
The resource-rich province borders Iran and Afghanistan and hosts major infrastructure and mineral projects, including developments associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused neighbouring Afghanistan and India of supporting terrorist groups operating inside the country.
Both Kabul and New Delhi have rejected the allegations.
