KARACHI: Karachi’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has arrested three suspected terrorists over an attack at an Independence Day stall in Korangi.
The arrests followed a joint intelligence-based operation involving the CTD, Sindh Rangers and intelligence agencies. The suspects allegedly attacked Karachi resident Aman on the night of August 12.
According to CTD officials, Aman was standing with his wife and children when the suspects opened fire.
He suffered critical injuries and later died during treatment.
Authorities said the investigation has uncovered details about the alleged network behind the attack.
Suspects Allegedly Conducted Reconnaissance
CTD DIG Azfar Mahesar shared details during a press conference.
SSP CTD Irfan Bahadur also attended the briefing.
Officials said the suspects allegedly surveyed Independence Day stalls two days before the shooting.
They reportedly conducted the reconnaissance through an associate identified as Sajjad Mallah.
After the attack, the suspects allegedly escaped using three separate motorcycles.
DIG Mahesar said a man identified as Arsalan Shah assigned the task to the suspects.
According to the official, Shah is reportedly living abroad and controlled the network.
Interrogations also allegedly revealed that the group surveyed several locations for potential bomb attacks.
Officials said foreign-based handlers had allegedly instructed the suspects to conduct these activities.
Foreign-Based Handler Allegedly Funded Group
SSP Irfan Bahadur alleged that Arsalan Shah sent money to the suspects from abroad during the first week of August.
He said the group allegedly aimed to create fear and disorder in Karachi during national occasions.
Independence Day celebrations were reportedly among the occasions targeted by the network.
The suspects were also allegedly instructed to attack law-enforcement personnel.
The SSP further alleged that an Indian proxy was operating behind the banned Sindh Revolutionary Army (SRA).
According to him, the group sought to carry out sabotage activities during national days.
However, these allegations remain part of the ongoing investigation.
Three Suspects Arrested Near Korangi Causeway
Police arrested the three suspects near Korangi Causeway on August 18.
Officials said the suspects allegedly belonged to the banned SRA.
The suspects were reportedly arrested in an injured condition during the operation.
Police also recovered three hand grenades and weapons from their possession.
The recovery has added further evidence to the investigation into the alleged network.
Authorities are now examining the suspects’ alleged links with other individuals involved in the activities.
Four Terrorism Cases Registered
DIG Mahesar said authorities have registered four cases against the suspects. The cases were filed under various sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Explosive Substances Act.
Meanwhile, SSP Bahadur said the investigation into the alleged network was continuing.
Authorities are also searching for alleged facilitators and other associates connected to the suspects.
“The entire network will be dismantled very soon,” he said.
The CTD said the operation reflects its continued efforts to prevent terrorism and sabotage in Karachi.
Further arrests could follow as investigators work to identify other members and facilitators allegedly connected to the network.
