The Counter Terrorism Department Punjab arrested an operative of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), identified as Matiullah, during an intelligence-based operation in Okara.
According to CTD sources, extremist literature and propaganda material were recovered from the suspect. Initial investigations revealed his involvement in recruitment activities for the banned organisation.
Separately, a joint security operation by district police and the Counter Terrorism Department was conducted in Paharpur, Dera Ismail Khan, resulting in the arrest of 21 suspects and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
The intelligence driven operation involved simultaneous raids and search activities across multiple localities, including Syedu-wali, Barz-wali, Ali Wanda, Chanda, Kali Wanda, Garh Pir Imam Shah, Gloti and Panyala.
Senior police and CTD officers supervised the operation, with personnel from Al-Baraq Force, Elite Force, CTD and district police taking part.
An exchange of fire also took place with suspected militants in a mountainous area near the interprovincial border. No casualties were reported. Although the suspects initially managed to flee, a subsequent cordon and search operation led to the detention of 21 individuals, including alleged facilitators.
All arrested suspects have been shifted to undisclosed locations for further interrogation.
