Five terrorists armed with heavy weapons and explosives attacked Pakistan Naval Air Base PNS Siddique late on Monday evening. However, timely action by Navy personnel thwarted the attack and prevented any damage to the base or its personnel.
According to a Pakistan Navy spokesman, the terrorists tried to get to the other side from the Turbat Civil Airport compound. Five terrorists threw hand grenades and opened fire at the entrance to the base.
However, a quick and coordinated response by Pakistan Navy personnel repulsed the attack, as a result of which the terrorists were unable to enter the naval base and all were eliminated.
The spokesperson claimed that in response to the attempted breach, a joint clearance operation by the Pakistan Navy, Border Force and Police was launched to sweep the surrounding areas for any potential threats and remaining terrorists.
He further said that all naval personnel present at the base as well as property remained safe.
No casualties were reported among security forces or civilians. PNS Siddique is among the largest naval air stations in the country.
Makran Divisional Commissioner Saeed Ahmed Umrani gave further details and said that the attackers tried to enter the airport from three to four nearby locations. However, they were detained by security personnel dispatched to the site.
He further stated that during the attack, a firefight between the security forces and the terrorists, as well as explosions, could be heard. Moreover, he explained that the naval air base was set up inside the airport, but at quite a distance and the attackers were far away from it.
He added that Navy, Border Force and Police forces were present at the spot to attack the terrorists.
He also said that the Majeed Brigade of the banned organisation, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack.
Earlier, the BLA had carried out an attack on the Gwadar Port Authority residential complex on March 20. Two security personnel were martyred in the attack. Eight terrorists were later killed in a retaliatory action by security forces.
