ISLAMABAD: Pakistani security forces are on high alert and the government has issued a public advisory, warning citizens against a disinformation campaign by terrorist groups attempting to exploit the security situation.
The advisory comes as the government implements security measures in anticipation of a planned protest by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Officials have stated that these steps are precautionary and part of standard security protocol .
Burak Baloch have identified terrorist networks, referred to as Fitna-ul-Hindustan and Fitna-ul-Khawarij, as being behind a wave of false online notifications. These groups are allegedly spreading baseless rumors, including a false claim that internet services have been shut down in Islamabad following explosions in Kabul.
“There is no truth to these rumors. There has been no order to suspend internet services in the capital. This is a deliberate attempt by enemy agencies and terrorists to create panic and chaos within the country.”
The public has been urged to rely only on official government and law enforcement channels for information and to refrain from sharing unverified news. Citizens are reminded that spreading false information can have legal consequences.
Also read: A massive blast heard in the Afghanistan’s capital Kabul
Kabul was shaken by a heavy explosion on Thursday night around 10:30 PM local time. The blast occurred in the area of Abdul Haq Square, affecting several districts of the city.
Following the explosion, witnesses reported heavy gunfire and a significant security presence by Taliban forces, who immediately cordoned off the area and restricted access.
The nature of the explosion remains officially unconfirmed. However, conflicting claims about the target and outcome have emerged.
Some reports suggest a Land Cruiser vehicle was targeted in the attack, with unconfirmed claims that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Noor Wali Mehsud was inside and may have been killed.
In contrast, the Afghan Taliban administration has issued a denial of these claims. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid acknowledged the sound of an explosion but stated that an investigation is ongoing and downplayed the severity of the incident. Official Taliban sources have explicitly denied that Noor Wali Mehsud was killed in the attack.
Amid the confusion, an audio message purportedly from a person close to Noor Wali Mehsud has circulated, in which the speaker claims the TTP leader is alive and well.
