In a significant display of counter-terrorism efficiency, the Dera Police achieved remarkable successes in the last 24 hours, apprehending key suspects involved in various terrorism and robbery incidents. Among the major operations, three armed robbers, including key suspects in the high-profile murder of trader leader Rana Aslam, were captured in a gunfight. Simultaneously, in a separate intelligence-driven operation, two notorious Khawarij were killed, significantly weakening a major terror network operating in the region.
The operations unfolded as part of an ongoing, aggressive crackdown by the Dera Police to combat rising terrorism and organised crime within the district. The first breakthrough came late in the evening when the police received intelligence about suspicious armed motorcyclists near the Ghulani Town area, located within the limits of the Kanchan Police Station. In a swift response, the City Circle Police, led by DSP Mohammad Adnan, immediately rushed to intercept the suspects. Upon arrival, the armed motorcyclists opened fire at the police vehicles, prompting the police to retaliate. After a brief exchange of fire, all three suspects were injured and apprehended. They were later identified and confirmed to be involved in the recent killing of trader leader Rana Aslam and his associate Javed, among other high-profile criminal activities.
Following their arrest, the suspects were transferred to the hospital for medical treatment. Investigations are ongoing, with police expecting to uncover further details about the criminals’ operations, including their involvement in other robberies and acts of violence in the region.
The second operation targeted a terror cell affiliated with the banned terrorist group, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. In an intelligence-based raid on Sikander Road near the Drain Deha Bharki area under the jurisdiction of Proa Police Station, two terrorists were eliminated. These terrorists, identified as Rashid, son of Alam Sher from Chhajri, and Rafiuddin, son of Abdul Rahman from Ladh Mahra, were wanted for their involvement in numerous acts of terror.
The operation, coordinated between the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Dera Police, resulted in the seizure of a large cache of weapons, including 1 Kalashnikov; 3 magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, 2 hand grenades, 1 rocket launcher, 4 rocket shells, and 7 rocket boosters.
The two deceased terrorists were allegedly responsible for several targeted killings, including the murders of police officers and Shia community leaders. They had been wanted for their participation in attacks on security forces and bombings in the region.
DPO Dera, Sajjad Ahmed Sahibzada, praised the police and CTD teams for their efforts in eradicating terror elements from the region. He emphasized that these operations were part of the police’s broader strategy to dismantle terror networks and restore peace to the district. The DPO also reassured the public that the authorities would continue to hunt down terrorists and criminals who pose a threat to the safety and security of the community.
The police action has been hailed as a significant step towards countering the growing threat of terrorism and extremism in the region, particularly in light of recent violence and targeted killings. Dera Police are expected to continue their intensive operations and remain vigilant to prevent any future attacks.
With these latest developments, the law enforcement agencies have sent a clear message to terrorists and criminals that they will not allow such elements to destabilise the peace of the area, and the police are committed to ensuring the safety of the public at all costs.
