In a significant counterterrorism breakthrough, Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) thwarted a major terrorist plot in Karachi, arresting three trained militants affiliated with the banned outfit Fitna-tul-Khawarij during a joint operation in the Korangi area.
According to a spokesperson for the Rangers, the arrested militants—identified as Nematullah, Noor Muhammad, and Sabirullah—were captured with a large quantity of arms, ammunition, and explosive materials. The suspects were reportedly planning a high-profile attack in the metropolis and were intercepted before they could carry it out.
The arrested men are said to be affiliated with the Ruman Rais and Islamuddin factions of the banned organization and had received formal militant training. Nematullah, who joined the group in 2018 and received combat training in Afghanistan, has been previously arrested twice on terrorism charges. Noor Muhammad, active since 2022, is believed to have been involved in extortion and planning targeted killings in Karachi. Sabirullah, a member since 2018, was reportedly engaged in the group’s online propaganda and recruitment campaigns.
Officials stated that the arrests were made following sustained intelligence efforts and surveillance, averting a potential tragedy in the city. The suspects have been handed over to the police for further legal action.
The foiled plot comes amid growing concerns over renewed militant activity in Pakistan, allegedly supported by foreign intelligence agencies. Security officials maintain that following recent setbacks on the battlefield, India has stepped up its backing of proxy groups—most notably the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)—by providing funding, arms, and logistical support to destabilize Pakistan through orchestrated acts of terrorism.
Just a day earlier, India-sponsored militants carried out a brutal attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, resulting in the tragic deaths of five civilians, including three young schoolgirls, and injuring 38 others. The cowardly assault sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for decisive action against all terror networks.
Security agencies across the country remain on high alert. In a statement following the arrests, law enforcement authorities reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to root out terrorism and bring all facilitators and perpetrators to justice. Comprehensive surveillance operations are ongoing to dismantle sleeper cells and disrupt any future plots before they reach execution.
