The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab has arrested 13 terrorists belonging to banned organizations while carrying out intelligence-based operations in various cities of the province, including Lahore. During the operation in Lahore, a key commander of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and two of Daesh (Islamic State) were captured, officials claimed. They further said that five terrorists of the outlawed TTP were arrested from Attock. The officials further said that activists of the banned organization were also arrested from Rawalpindi, Bahawalpur and Jhelum. The CTD officials said explosive material and equipment for making suicide jackets were recovered from the arrested terrorists. The officials said cases have been registered against those arrested, and investigations started.

 Previously on September 9, the CTD had arrested two alleged terrorists during intelligence-based operations in Rawalpindi and Gujranwala. The arrested terrorists include Isa, said to be a central member of Daesh or Islamic State (IS). Officials said Isa was arrested from Rawalpindi in an IBO. A large quantity of explosive material, detonators, mobile phones and cash were seized from the arrested terrorists, they added. They further said that cases had been registered against the terrorists, and an investigation was underway. The CTD officials said that week, 369 combing operations were conducted wherein 52 suspects were arrested.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)