In a major counterterrorism success, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) conducted coordinated operations in two separate areas of Karachi, resulting in the arrest of five terrorists affiliated with banned militant organizations and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and communication devices.
According to CTD officials, the arrested terrorists include Imran Khan, Zaheer Ahmed, and Muhammad Riaz, who are affiliated with the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), while Hujatullah and Habibullah are associated with Fitna Al-Khawarij (FAK).
During the operations, CTD personnel recovered five 30-bore pistols, ammunition, and mobile phones from the possession of the arrested terrorists.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the terrorists had allegedly conducted reconnaissance of various sensitive installations and strategic locations on the instructions of terrorist commander Abdul Rahman. Authorities believe the surveillance activities were part of preparations for potential terrorist operations targeting key locations.
According to investigators, the suspects had gathered information regarding sensitive sites and transmitted intelligence to their handlers as part of a broader terrorist network.
CTD officials stated that arrested terrorist Zaheer Ahmed was allegedly involved in an IED blast in Balochistan in 2024. Investigations further indicate that he received terrorist training at a camp operated by the banned BLA.
Authorities also disclosed that the arrested Fitna Al-Khawarij terrorists allegedly underwent militant training in Afghanistan during 2024. Following their return, they reportedly conducted reconnaissance of sensitive offices and locations in Karachi and shared the collected information with terrorist commander Hidayatullah.
The recovery of weapons and ammunition from the terrorists has provided investigators with additional evidence regarding their activities and operational intentions. Separate cases have been registered against the arrested terrorists at the CTD Police Station under relevant anti-terrorism laws.
CTD officials confirmed that further investigations are underway to identify additional facilitators, operational networks, and possible links with terrorist organizations operating within and beyond Pakistan’s borders.
The successful operation underscores the CTD’s continued efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent attacks, and safeguard the lives of citizens. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing terrorists and their facilitators wherever they operate and ensuring that all threats to national security are effectively countered.
Investigations remain ongoing, and further arrests cannot be ruled out as authorities continue to examine evidence obtained during the operation.
