The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Punjab has arrested 21 terrorists, including two high-value commanders affiliated with Indian proxies; the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), during a series of intelligence-based operations across multiple cities.
According to a CTD spokesperson, at least 214 intelligence-based operations were conducted in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Multan and other districts as part of a coordinated crackdown on terrorist networks.
In Lahore, CTD personnel arrested a key TTP commander identified as Pir Shams, described as a highly dangerous operative, and recovered explosive material from his possession.
In a separate operation in Toba Tek Singh, authorities apprehended a senior BLA commander, Abdul Latif, also found with explosive substances.
The CTD said that other arrested terrorists include individuals identified as Misbah, Samiullah, Gulab Khan, Zareen Shah, and Ziaur Rehman.
A significant cache of weapons and explosives was recovered during the operations, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 17 detonators, safety fuse wire, explosive material, banned literature, and cash.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the arrested terrorists were planning to target sensitive locations in various cities, indicating a coordinated plot aimed at destabilizing urban centers.
Officials said further investigations are underway to trace facilitators and dismantle remaining networks linked to the suspects.
The arrests come amid continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to preempt terrorist activity through intelligence-led operations and strengthen internal security across Punjab.
