The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) carried out a successful operation in Panjgur, arresting a key terrorist linked to the banned BYC and recovering a large quantity of weapons, officials confirmed during a press briefing.

According to the CTD, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Panjgur, leading to the arrest of terrorist Sajid Ahmed. CTD DIG Aizaz Goraya alleged that the suspect is affiliated with the banned BYC and was a key operative within the group.

DIG Goraya stated that a large cache of weapons was recovered from Sajid Ahmed’s possession during the operation. The arrested terrorist was transporting a huge quantity of arms from Panjgur to Turbat at the time of arrest.

Officials said the recovery averted a potential major security threat in the region.

Involvement in propaganda, recruitment

CTD officials revealed that Sajid Ahmed was actively involved in writing and disseminating literature for the banned BYC. According to the DIG, several Baloch youth were influenced by his activities and subsequently joined the group.

Authorities said the group has been exploiting young people for extremist and violent purposes.

The DIG said the arrested terrorist is a graduate of Islamic University of Islamabad. Officials expressed concern over educated individuals being drawn into extremist networks.

Investigations are ongoing to identify his contacts and facilitators.

Decline in terrorism incidents

During a joint press conference, the Balochistan additional chief secretary (home) said incidents of terrorism have declined across the province. He stated that more than 730 anti-terrorism operations were conducted last year.

He added that police presence has been ensured throughout Balochistan to maintain law and order.

The DIG confirmed that three additional terrorists have also been arrested in recent operations. A boy involved in conducting police reconnaissance was arrested from Kharan.

Additionally, a facilitator identified as Jahanzeb and another terrorist named Bezal were also taken into custody.

BYC using students, ransom funds

CTD officials alleged that the banned BYC is transferring ransom money through students and deliberately using youth for its nefarious activities. Authorities warned that such tactics pose a serious threat to social stability.

Officials said strong action is being taken to dismantle these networks.

During the briefing, officials stated that Fitna-ul-Hindustan is actively involved in terrorist activities in Balochistan. Security agencies reiterated their commitment to eliminating all elements involved in terrorism.

They emphasized that operations against banned outfits will continue until lasting peace is restored in the province.