CTD guns down 14 terrorists in two Quetta operations

Quetta, February 18, 2026 – The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) carried out two separate operations in Balochistan, killing 14 terrorists during exchanges of fire in Quetta and Barkhan, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

In Quetta’s Darakhshan area, CTD forces engaged militants, killing eight suspects. Three CTD personnel were injured during the clash. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who were reportedly linked to a banned organization.

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Barkhan, six terrorists were killed, and authorities recovered weapons and explosives. These suspects were allegedly involved in subversive activities targeting the region.

The operations came a day after 12 terrorists were killed in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), following a deadly terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 11 security personnel.

Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, KP and Balochistan — provinces bordering Afghanistan — have been significantly affected by terrorist activity. Earlier this month, attacks by India-backed groups, including Fitna al-Hindustan and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), left 36 civilians and 22 security personnel martyred, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Security forces responded with Operation Raddul Fitna 1, eliminating at least 216 terrorists in coordinated operations across the region.

Meanwhile, terrorists attacked a Pakistan Customs office and a police station near York Interchange in Dera Ismail Khan. Two officials — Customs officer Israr Khan and police officer Muhammad Bilal — were martyred. The attackers set two customs vehicles on fire and opened fire on passengers before escaping. A search operation is ongoing.

The CTD and other security agencies continue intelligence-based operations to prevent further terrorist activity and restore peace in affected areas.