Lahore [Pakistan], April 14 (ANI): Punjab’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) successfully foiled several major terrorist attacks by arresting 10 individuals affiliated with banned outfits, during a series of wide-scale crackdowns across the province. The operations took place in multiple districts, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Jhelum, and Bahawalpur, as reported by Dawn.
Intelligence-Based Operations
According to a CTD spokesperson, a total of 189 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) were conducted. During these operations, authorities interrogated 189 suspects, leading to the arrest of 10 individuals who were found to be involved in terror activities. These individuals had links with proscribed groups such as Fitna Khawarij and Al-Zainabiyoun.
Key Arrests and Recoveries
Among the most significant arrests were Suraj Singh and Badal Singh, both detained in Rawalpindi. Authorities seized a large quantity of explosives in the process, including:
- 2,645 grams of explosives
- 16 detonators
- 37 feet of safety fuse wire
Additionally, 75 pamphlets and magazines linked to banned organizations were confiscated, along with mobile phones and a sum of cash.
The CTD statement indicated that the arrested individuals had been planning to target important buildings in Rawalpindi and other cities. Nine First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the arrests, and investigations are ongoing.
Larger Counterterrorism Effort
As part of its broader counterterrorism efforts, the CTD also carried out 2,053 combing operations in collaboration with local police and security agencies. These operations led to the screening of 82,473 individuals, resulting in the arrest of 263 suspects and the filing of 226 FIRs.
Rising Terror Activity
The arrests and operations come amid a surge in terror activity across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported that February 2025 saw 79 terror attacks nationwide, resulting in 55 civilian and 47 security personnel fatalities, with 45 civilians and 81 security personnel injured. In response, security forces have intensified operations, eliminating 156 terrorists, injuring 20, and apprehending 66.
This series of actions reflects the growing efforts of security forces to combat the increasing terror threat across the country.
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