The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), in collaboration with a sensitive agency, has arrested two members of the Zainebiyoun Brigade, allegedly operating from a neighbouring country and involved in multiple target killings across Karachi.
According to CTD DIg Ghulam Azfar Mahesar, the arrested suspects have been identified as Israr Hussain Gilgiti and Masoom Raza alias Imran Mota (also known as Aamir). He confirmed that Masoom Raza’s name is listed in the Red Book of wanted terrorists.
Suspects confess to multiple target killings
During a press conference at the CTD Garden Headquarters, DIG Mahesar claimed that the arrested terrorists confessed to several sectarian killings, including the murder of Qari Abdul Rehman in Sherpao Colony in May, and Qari Anas Rehman on University Road.
The group is believed to have killed Abdul Rehman in Korangi and Anas on University Road, while maintaining a network of sleeper cells and operatives across Karachi.
Weapons and explosives recovered
The CTD recovered two pistols and two hand grenades from the suspects’ possession. DIG Mahesar added that the group had compiled a hit list of several targets in Karachi and was preparing to carry out additional attacks.
He stated that three to four more operatives involved in religious terrorism have been identified, and operations are underway to arrest them.
Zainebiyoun Brigade’s network and foreign links
DIG Mahesar said the Zainebiyoun Brigade is operated from a neighbouring country and has spread its network across different areas of Karachi. The group reportedly provides weapons on rent and maintains sleeper cells to facilitate targeted operations.
While the group’s connection to the recent Nagin Chowrangi incident is still under investigation, preliminary findings suggest the fabric of that event is also linked to this network.
CTD’s efforts and govt support
DIG Mahesar emphasized that courts remain neutral forums, and CTD presents cases based purely on evidence. He noted that the Sindh government has appointed a separate prosecutor for CTD cases to ensure efficient handling of terrorism trials.
He also lamented that CTD’s positive work often goes unnoticed, adding, “Unfortunately, good work is not highlighted as much, while negative things spread more.” Nonetheless, he asserted that CTD’s performance has improved considerably over the past months.
Ongoing search for associates
The DIG confirmed that other associates of the arrested terrorists remain at large and are believed to be involved in sectarian terrorism across Karachi. He assured that law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing these suspects to dismantle the network completely.
He also warned individuals on the hit list to exercise caution, reiterating that the department remains vigilant against further plots of target killings or sectarian attacks.
The DIG said that although it is too early to confirm the group’s involvement in the recent New Karachi target killing, CTD is investigating all angles. He expressed confidence that the department’s continued intelligence-based operations will help neutralize terrorist cells operating in the city.
