The Punjab government has approved an additional fund of over Rs1.9 billion for the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) to strengthen operations against terrorism. The funds will be utilized to purchase state-of-the-art digital media monitoring software, open-source intelligence systems, modern machinery, and vehicles, enhancing the department’s capability to combat terrorist threats. Sources revealed that the funds, requested during the current financial year, will be allocated for software acquisition, transport, and essential equipment. With a noticeable rise in terrorism incidents, particularly in KP and Balochistan, this funding marks a critical step toward enhancing counter-terrorism measures in Punjab.

 Earlier this year, in April, the CTD Punjab identified 25,432 suspected terrorists linked to various banned organisations. A report compiled by the department details the affiliations and personal information of these individuals. Among them, 8,926 suspects were linked to the same organisation, while 968 were reportedly influenced by the ideology of Daesh, an internationally designated terrorist group. The CTD has intensified surveillance of these individuals, focusing on tracking their activities and preventing further security threats.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)