RAWALPINDI: Terrorists killed an abducted colonel of Pak Army when they were confronted by Pak Army troops in a rescue operation, said a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations on Thursday.

According to the military’s media wing, a group of 10-12 terrorists abducted Lieutenant Colonel Laiq Baig Mirza who was serving in DHA Quetta and his cousin Umer Javed on night of 12/13 July 2022, when they were returning to Quetta near Warchoom, Ziarat, after having visited Quaid’s residency.

On receipt of information, Army Quick Reaction Forces were immediately dispatched to chase fleeing terrorists who traced them moving to their hideouts in general area Mangi Dam. A deliberate search operation was launched by security forces using SSG troops and helicopters. Resultantly, on night 13/14 July, a group of 6-8 Terrorists was spotted moving in a Nullah in nearby mountains by one of the teams of security forces.

On sensing their possible encirclement, terrorists shot Lieutenant Colonel Laiq Baig Mirza Shaheed and attempted to flee. In ensuing exchange of fire, two terrorists have been killed while a cache of IEDs, explosives and ammunition has also been recovered.

However, in the process, remaining terrorists succeeded in fleeing along with other abductee Omer for time being. Determined to recover the innocent civilian hostage and apprehend perpetrators, sanitization operation in the area by security forces continues unabated despite bad weather conditions.

Security Forces remain resolute to thwart such cowardly attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan. Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo also confirmed the death of the army officer. He said that perpetrators of the crime would be brought to justice, according to statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat today.

Bizenjo said that purpose of kidnapping army officer and his subsequent martyrdom was nothing but to create the atmosphere of terror in the province. According to reports, Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for abducting Lt Col Laeeq from Ziarat.