KARACHI: Three terrorists linked to attacks on Chinese nationals were gunned down in an exchange of fire with the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Karachi’s Manghopir area, officials confirmed on Sunday.
According to CTD in-charge Raja Umar Khattab, a joint operation was launched by the CTD and a sensitive intelligence agency after receiving credible information about the presence of militants from a banned organization in a residential house. A fierce gun battle ensued, lasting several hours.
“All three terrorists were neutralized on the spot,” Khattab told reporters outside Civil Hospital. “The deceased were affiliated with the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and were involved in several high-profile terror activities, including last year’s attack on Chinese nationals.”
One of the slain militants was identified as a suicide bomber. The CTD recovered a cache of weapons from the scene, including Kalashnikov rifles, two TT pistols, grenades, suicide vests, and a diary containing a list of potential targets.
The terrorists were identified as Zafran and Qudratullah, while the identity of the third is yet to be confirmed. Authorities revealed that Zafran had a bounty of Rs. 20 million on his head, announced by the government.
“These terrorists had recently infiltrated from Afghanistan and were planning more attacks,” Khattab added.
The bodies were shifted to the hospital for medico-legal procedures, while security forces have launched further operations based on intelligence gathered from the scene.
Also Read: 15 Fitna al Hindustan terrorists killed in Noshki operation
The successful operation marks a significant blow to the network of TTP operatives operating in urban areas, particularly those targeting foreign nationals.
