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CTD claims arrest of suspect supplying drone technology to TTP in Karachi
๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฐ Pakistan /Technology

CTD claims arrest of suspect supplying drone technology to TTP in Karachi

From Dawn · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Authorities in Karachi arrested a suspect allegedly supplying drone technology and electronic equipment to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
  • The suspect is accused of procuring drone components and materials for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on behalf of his brother, a wanted TTP member in Afghanistan.
  • Recovered items include explosive material, a drone, a battery, and a remote control, with further investigations ongoing.

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Karachi, in collaboration with a federal civilian intelligence agency, has arrested an individual suspected of supplying drone technology and electronic equipment to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The CTD spokesperson announced the arrest on Saturday, stating the suspect allegedly facilitated the TTP's drone-based attacks.

According to the CTD, the arrested man is the brother of Talal alias Zaid Baloch, an active TTP member reportedly based in Afghanistan and listed among the department's most-wanted militants. The CTD described the arrest as a significant development, asserting that the suspect played a crucial role in acquiring modern drone technology and explosive materials used in terrorist activities.

Investigators claim that, under his brother's direction, the suspect purchased drone motors, propellers, batteries, controller boards, and other electronic items suitable for constructing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The CTD also stated the suspect was involved in procuring specific mobile phones and drone models, obtaining them from Karachi markets and online platforms.

During initial questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted that the procured equipment was intended for IEDs, suicide vests, and drone attacks. Authorities recovered two kilograms of explosive material, a drone, a battery, and a remote control from his possession. The Sindh Home Minister commended the CTD's operation, highlighting effective intelligence sharing and a timely response by law enforcement agencies.

The arrest marks an important breakthrough in disrupting networks involved in facilitating terrorist groups, adding that authorities would continue intensified efforts to dismantle remaining links and bring all facilitators to justice.

โ€” Ziaul Hassan LanjarSindh Home Minister commenting on the significance of the CTD operation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dawn. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.