In a major counterterrorism breakthrough, intelligence and law enforcement agencies have foiled an exceptionally dangerous terrorist plot aimed at Karachi, following weeks of meticulous surveillance and a highly coordinated intelligence-led operation. Officials described the operation as one of the most significant successes in recent years, crediting timely, precise, and decisive action for preventing a potential catastrophe.
The operation was the result of a prolonged and professionally executed intelligence effort led by a premier intelligence agency, which acted on verified and credible information. Authorities confirmed that more than 2,000 kilograms of highly destructive explosive material were recovered, averting what could have resulted in massive civilian casualties. The details were shared during a high-level press conference addressed by Additional Inspector General CTD Zulfiqar Lark and DIG CTD Captain (Retd) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar.
Officials revealed that after days and nights of sustained effort, one terrorist was initially apprehended. Interrogation of the suspect led to further critical intelligence, culminating in the arrest of two additional terrorists late last night. The arrested individuals have been identified as Jalil Ahmed alias Fareed son of Muhammad Noor, Niaz Qadir alias King son of Qadir Bakhsh, and Hamdan alias Fareed son of Muhammad Ali. Continuous monitoring and exceptional vigilance by security agencies played a decisive role in uncovering the network and dismantling its operational capability.
The recovered explosive material was safely transported out of the city and neutralized in the Hub area, following strict safety protocols. Authorities emphasized that the seizure of such a large quantity of explosives saved countless innocent lives, as the terrorists were planning attacks on civilian targets within Karachi.
Investigations revealed that the terrorists had rented a house located 35 to 40 kilometers outside Karachi, which they used as a hideout and staging area. Intelligence agencies maintained round-the-clock human and technical surveillance while keeping the operation completely covert to prevent panic among the public. Special care was taken to assess potential booby traps and secondary hazards during the operation.
During the raids, security forces recovered more than 30 plastic drums filled with explosive material and five metal gas cylinders. Preliminary findings indicate that the explosives were transported from Afghanistan into Balochistan and subsequently smuggled into Karachi, highlighting a sophisticated cross-border supply chain.
Evidence further suggests that the terrorist network was being operated from neighboring countries and was linked to groups working in line with Indian interests. Officials stated that Indian proxies, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), continue to use safe havens in Afghanistan. The network’s links have also been traced to Bashir Zeb, the BLA, Fitna-e-Hindustan, and the Majeed Brigade, all of which have been involved in past terrorist activities.
Authorities noted that urea-based explosive material, commonly used in terrorist attacks, was part of the recovered cache, underscoring the importance of dismantling terrorist supply chains. Security agencies stressed that breaking these logistics networks remains a top priority in the broader fight against terrorism.
Investigators also highlighted the role of local facilitators, who assist terrorists in exchange for minor financial gains. Residential properties are often rented and misused for hiding operatives and manufacturing explosives, prompting officials to call for stricter monitoring and verification of rental properties. Law enforcement agencies further emphasized the need for strict enforcement of laws governing the illegal use of urea and other hazardous chemicals.
Security and intelligence agencies reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms. All individuals connected to this terror plot are being actively pursued, and authorities stated that further details will be shared as investigations progress. The successful disruption of this plot stands as a testament to Pakistan’s enhanced intelligence capabilities and its firm commitment to protecting lives and maintaining national security.
