CRIME

Punjab CTD Neutralizes Two Terrorists in Dera Ghazi Khan Operation

Punjab's CTD foiled a major terror plot, killing two terrorists during an operation in Dera Ghazi Khan. Explosives and weapons were recovered as the hunt for fleeing suspects continues.
2024-09-13
Punjab CTD Neutralizes Two Terrorists in Dera Ghazi Khan Operation

The Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) successfully neutralized two terrorists during an operation in Dera Ghazi Khan late Thursday night, according to a statement issued on Friday. Acting on intelligence regarding the presence of militants in the district’s Quetta Road area, CTD officers moved in to foil the terror plot.

 

During the exchange of gunfire, two of the militants were killed by the crossfire from their own accomplices, while two others managed to escape, using the cover of darkness to evade capture. Law enforcement officials have launched a search operation to locate the remaining suspects.

 

The CTD recovered explosives, rifles, bullets, and a hand grenade from the terrorists’ hideout, foiling their plans to launch large-scale attacks on key installations across the province. The department is currently working to identify the deceased terrorists, and investigations are ongoing.

 

The CTD’s spokesperson reaffirmed the department’s commitment to eradicating terrorism in Punjab, stating, “We are diligently pursuing our goal of making Punjab a safer place by rooting out the scourge of terrorism.”

 

In the past month alone, CTD Punjab has conducted 475 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across the province, leading to the arrest of 33 suspected terrorists. The spokesperson emphasized that the department remains focused on countering terrorist threats and ensuring public safety.

 

Dera Ghazi Khan, located in southern Punjab, has seen a history of militant activity due to its proximity to Balochistan and the tribal areas. The recent operation is part of ongoing efforts to prevent terrorist groups from establishing a foothold in the region.

 

The country has witnessed an uptick in terrorist activity recently, with 59 attacks reported in August compared to 38 in the previous month, according to data from the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS).

 

Punjab Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the CTD for its timely action, congratulating the department on successfully thwarting the terrorists’ plot. "I commend CTD Punjab for neutralizing the terrorists of Fitna al Khawarij and preventing a potential tragedy," Naqvi said.

 

In July, the Pakistani government officially designated the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as Fitna al Khawarij, a term used to describe outcasts or rebels. The government has mandated that all institutions use this term to refer to those involved in terrorist activities.

 

Naqvi reiterated the department’s role as the “vanguard” of Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, stating, “CTD Punjab has always been on the frontlines, neutralizing terrorist threats and ensuring the safety of our people.”

 

As investigations continue and efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects are underway, the operation highlights the persistent threat of terrorism in Pakistan and the ongoing efforts to safeguard the country.