Three terrorists from the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were arrested in Karachi’s Quaidabad area during a joint operation by Sindh Rangers and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). These individuals were allegedly planning attacks on security forces. The arrested suspects were identified as Mohammed Javed Swati alias Bhai Jan, Shahid Husain alias Umer, and Akbar Zaib Khan. They are accused of involvement in various criminal activities, including terrorism, murder, attempted murder, and extortion. The authorities recovered a significant amount of arms, ammunition, and explosive material from their custody.
TTP’s Role in Attacks on Security Forces
The suspects belong to the Fitna al Khawarij Swat Group, a faction of the TTP. This group has been responsible for numerous attacks on security forces in Pakistan. Mohammed Javed Swati, a key member, had joined the TTP in 2008 and remained active in Swat before relocating to Karachi. Despite being arrested in 2012, Swati continued to maintain links with his fellow terrorists in Afghanistan, where he facilitated operations aimed at attacking security forces.
Extortion and Militant Training in Karachi
Shahid Husain and Akbar Zaib Khan also joined the TTP in the early 2010s and were involved in multiple extortion schemes across Karachi. These militants targeted local businesses, demanding large sums of money. Additionally, they were implicated in a shooting incident in which a retired police officer was killed. The suspects’ activities contributed to the growing threat posed by attacks on security forces in urban areas like Karachi.
Punjab Police Responds to Attacks on Security Forces
In a separate incident, two terrorists were killed in a joint operation between Punjab’s CTD and Dera Ghazi Khan police. The terrorists launched an attack on police forces using hand grenades and heavy weapons, but were neutralized after an intense gunfight. The terrorists were believed to be planning attacks on police stations and other sensitive sites. This operation underscores the heightened security risks and the ongoing efforts to combat attacks on security forces in Punjab.
Ongoing Threat from TTP
The arrest of these militants and the successful operation in Punjab highlight the persistent threat posed by the TTP and similar militant groups. Despite efforts to curb the violence, the TTP has continued to target security forces, especially since breaking its ceasefire with the government in 2022. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert to counter these attacks on security forces, ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
