In a significant development in efforts to strengthen internal security and prevent potential threats, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Karachi, in coordination with a federal intelligence agency, has arrested three suspects allegedly associated with the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during intelligence-based operations at two separate locations in Karachi.
According to a CTD spokesperson, the joint operations resulted in the arrest of two BLA affiliates and one TTP affiliate. The recovered items included a prepared improvised explosive device (IED), a hand grenade, a .30-bore pistol, a loaded magazine, and five rounds of ammunition.
The operations were conducted near University Road in Block 7, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, and beneath the Gulbai Chowk flyover. The actions formed part of ongoing efforts to identify individuals suspected of involvement in activities that could threaten public safety and national security.
According to the CTD spokesperson, the first operation was carried out near University Road in Block 7, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, where personnel arrested Rahim Fazal and Balach Baloch, both suspected of links to the proscribed BLA. Authorities are examining their alleged organisational affiliations, activities, and possible connections to other incidents as part of the ongoing investigation.
In a separate operation beneath the Gulbai Chowk flyover, security personnel arrested Shah Noor Rahman Khan, who is suspected of affiliation with the proscribed TTP. Investigators are examining the suspect’s alleged activities, connections, and potential links with other individuals associated with the organisation.
The CTD spokesperson confirmed the recovery of the following items during the operations:
- One prepared improvised explosive device (IED).
- One hand grenade.
- One .30-bore pistol.
- One loaded magazine.
- Five rounds of ammunition.
The recovered material is being examined as investigators seek to establish its origin, intended use, and possible connection to the suspects’ alleged plans.
According to the CTD, preliminary interrogation indicates that the arrested suspects were planning to target sensitive locations and offices of law-enforcement agencies in Karachi. These claims remain subject to further investigation and verification through evidence and established legal procedures.
Officials further alleged that the two suspects linked to the BLA had previously been involved in targeted killings, kidnappings, and attacks against Security Forces in Balochistan. The nature and extent of their alleged involvement are being examined by the relevant authorities.
The CTD also stated that the suspect allegedly associated with the TTP claimed to have participated in attacks against Security Forces in Waziristan. Investigators are working to verify this claim and establish whether the suspect maintained links with other individuals involved in such incidents.
