Pakistani counter-terrorism and intelligence agencies have thwarted a significant terrorist operation in Karachi after seizing more than 2,000 kilograms of explosive material and detaining three suspected militants believed to be planning large-scale attacks on civilian targets in the metropolis.
In a press briefing, senior officials from the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), including Additional Inspector General Zulfiqar Larik and Deputy Inspector General Ghulam Azfar Mahesar, confirmed that the operation was based on verified intelligence inputs concerning an imminent threat aimed at destabilising security in Karachi. According to Geo News
Operation Details and Seizure
According to CTD officials, the raid was conducted in the Raees Goth area on the western outskirts of Karachi after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering. Law enforcement recovered a truck and a mini-vehicle laden with explosive material, including:
- More than 30 large plastic drums filled with explosive material
- Five gas cylinders rigged with explosive charge
- Approximately 2,000kg of explosive material
- Detonators and related components
Bomb Disposal Units subsequently transported and safely neutralised the explosives outside the city to minimise risk to nearby communities.
Suspects and Network Links
Three individuals were arrested during coordinated raids, identified as part of a militant cell with alleged links to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), including factions associated with commander Bashir Zeb and allied groups. Initial interrogation suggested that the plot’s planning and logistical support were orchestrated from abroad, with materials trafficked into Pakistan via routes through Balochistan.
Officials indicated that the suspects were assembling the materials for use as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) that could have caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage had the plot succeeded.
Security and Follow-Up Actions
Authorities described the operation as a timely and decisive intervention, crediting joint efforts by the CTD, the Intelligence Bureau, Special Branch, and other law enforcement units for averting potential mass-casualty attacks. Investigations are ongoing, with additional search operations under way to apprehend any remaining network members and facilitators.
Security has been heightened in major public venues across Karachi, and counter-terrorism teams continue to monitor high-risk zones to prevent retaliatory or follow-on threats.
Context
The incident comes amid sustained counter-terrorism operations across Pakistan aimed at disrupting militant networks and pre-empting attacks on civilian and economic infrastructure. Karachi, as the country’s largest city and economic hub, remains a critical focus of intelligence and law enforcement activities.
