In a significant crackdown on terrorism, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab has arrested 26 individuals linked to extremist and terrorist networks following a series of intelligence-based operations conducted across multiple cities in the province.
A CTD spokesperson stated that, in response to credible threats of terrorist activity, the department carried out 286 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) over the past month in cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Khushab, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Faisalabad, Jhang, Chakwal, Rajanpur, Narowal, Pakpattan, and Sargodha.
Among the arrests, one individual linked to Al-Qaeda was apprehended in Lahore, while four highly dangerous suspects affiliated with Fitna Al-Khawarij were captured in Sargodha. The suspects, originating from outside the province, were found in possession of a significant cache of explosives and materials, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), three EED bombs, 19 detonators, 34 feet of safety fuses and wires, propaganda pamphlets, cash, and primary cards.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Irfan, Zamin Ali, Mujahid Ali, Faisal, Shiraz, Nematullah, Usama, Ghulam Yasin, Yasir, Imran, among others. These individuals were reportedly planning attacks at multiple locations to instill fear and destabilize local communities.
Over the past month, CTD Punjab also conducted 4,662 combing operations, during which 538 suspects were apprehended, and questioning was carried out with over 160,000 individuals to prevent potential terrorist acts.
The CTD spokesperson reaffirmed the department’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and extremist networks from Punjab. “Our operations are intelligence-driven and systematic, aimed at neutralizing threats before they can harm the public. The CTD remains resolute in uprooting terrorism from its roots and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens,” the spokesperson said.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies, reporting any suspicious activity or information that could prevent attacks.
