The Balochistan government on Tuesday released its report on the Mangi Dam attack, saying 27 security personnel lost their lives while security forces killed 15 militants during the subsequent operation. Water theft: Karachi launches first dedicated KW&SC police station According to the report, intelligence agencies had warned authorities about a possible attack before the incident. As a result, officials reinforced the police check post with additional personnel and weapons several days in advance. On July 6, authorities deployed about 35 police personnel under the command of a deputy superintendent of police (DSP). The nearest Frontier Corps (FC) post was about 20 kilometres from the check post. At around 11am, personnel heard intermittent gunfire from a nearby remote area. Police headquarters and the FC received immediate information about the situation. Officials believed the reinforced deployment could respond effectively. Police headquarters quickly sent another contingent of about 35 personnel. Meanwhile, the FC deployed an armed helicopter that monitored the area for nearly 90 minutes. According to the report, the militants avoided a direct assault during daylight hours. Instead, they continued intermittent firing in an apparent attempt to deplete the defenders’ ammunition. By evening, most of the ammunition had run out. However, police personnel continued defending their positions despite the difficult conditions. Reinforcements also came under heavy fire as they approached the check post. The FC then used VTOL drones and mortar fire to target militant positions. Consequently, police and FC personnel advanced towards the check post. After nightfall, the militants launched a direct assault. Police personnel and reinforcements offered strong resistance during the intense fighting. The government said the clashes killed 15 militants. The attack also claimed the lives of nine police personnel, while three others suffered injuries. Rescue teams later evacuated the injured officers. With ammunition nearly exhausted, the remaining personnel split into two groups and attempted to withdraw under the cover of darkness. The group led by the DSP reached safety. However, militants intercepted the second group of 18 personnel and took them hostage, according to the report. The government said steep mountains, rocky terrain and deep ravines slowed the operation. Security forces therefore advanced cautiously to avoid ambushes. Following the attack, the FC and Pakistan Army launched a large-scale combing operation across more than 300 square kilometres. Authorities said the operation will continue until security forces eliminate all militants in the area. The provincial government rejected what it described as misleading narratives about the incident. It said the personnel at the Mangi Dam check post fought with determination until their final moments. The report was released after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Quetta this week. During the visit, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to continuing counterterrorism operations until every militant is eliminated. Post navigation Ziarat attack Security forces rescue 11 kidnapped policemen as operation continues
