13 Militants Mostly From Banned Outfit TTP Arrested In Pakistan

Pakistan’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has arrested 13 militants, most of them linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), during a series of intelligence-based operations across Punjab province. Officials said the arrests helped security forces stop a possible terror attack that was being planned against law enforcement offices and other important locations in the region.

According to CTD officials, the operations were carried out in several cities over the past week after authorities received intelligence reports about suspicious militant activities. Security teams conducted around 58 separate raids in different areas and successfully detained the suspects. The arrested militants were reportedly connected to banned extremist groups, mainly the TTP, which has been responsible for several deadly attacks in Pakistan in recent years.

Officials said one of the main suspects, identified as Mukhtar Ahmad, was arrested in Lahore. Authorities described him as a dangerous TTP member who was allegedly carrying a large quantity of explosive material. During the operations, security teams recovered explosives, detonators, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), banned literature, mobile phones, and other materials believed to be linked to terror planning activities.

The CTD stated that the militants were planning attacks on security installations and government offices in Punjab. Officials added that the timely operations prevented what could have been a major terror incident. Separate cases have now been registered against all 13 suspects, and further investigations are underway to identify other possible members and supporters connected to the network.

Pakistan has seen a rise in militant violence in recent years, especially in areas near the Afghanistan border. The TTP, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, has increased attacks on security forces and public places since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Pakistani authorities have repeatedly said that militant groups are trying to expand their activities inside the country, forcing security agencies to increase counter-terror operations.

Security experts believe these arrests are an important step in weakening militant networks operating inside Pakistan. Officials also said intelligence-sharing and continuous operations will continue in different provinces to prevent future attacks and improve national security. The government has promised strict action against all banned organizations involved in terrorism and extremist activities.