The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Pakistan has apprehended ten suspected terrorists in multiple cities across the country. The arrests were carried out as part of 132 operations conducted by the CTD to curb terrorist activities. The individuals detained are believed to have links with banned organizations like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Daesh (ISIS).
According to a spokesperson for the CTD, several of the arrested individuals in Lahore, Multan, and DG Khan were involved in planning attacks on shrines and other places of worship. Additionally, two individuals were apprehended in Attock for plotting an attack targeting Chinese citizens.
During the operations, law enforcement authorities confiscated explosives, detonators, arms, ammunition, maps of important buildings, and a significant amount of cash. The arrested individuals have been identified as Azir, Adil, Ramzan, Abdul Rehman, Usman, Asif, Muawiya, Usama, Rehman, and Hazrat Shiyan.
Meanwhile, in a separate series of arrests, seven more individuals were held for spreading hatred against sectarian groups on social media. The recent week witnessed a total of 36 suspects being apprehended during 485 combing operations in various cities including Lahore, Attock, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Multan, and DG Khan. Authorities have heightened security in these areas due to the ongoing Ashura processions for Muharram.
In light of the sensitivity surrounding the processions, mobile phones, internet services, and transport facilities have been temporarily suspended in certain marked areas. Thirteen districts in Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and others, have been deemed sensitive, leading to the suspension of mobile services on Muharram 9 and 10.
Furthermore, it was reported that last month, security forces successfully foiled a large-scale terror plot targeting Eidul Azha festivities by arresting nine terrorists across three cities in Punjab. Previous operations conducted in Multan, Bahawalpur, and DG Khan also resulted in the detention of individuals associated with banned extremist networks, including a female activist linked to Daesh.
The CTD’s swift actions and apprehensions highlight the government’s commitment to maintaining national security and combating terrorism. The ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent potential attacks demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence and law enforcement agencies in the country. With these operations in motion, the authorities aim to provide a safe environment for citizens while preserving peace and harmony within Pakistan.
