CTD arrests 36 terrorists, foils major plot in Punjab

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Mar, 2026) The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Punjab on Saturday arrested 36 terrorists affiliated with various banned organizations during intelligence-based operations conducted across the province over the past month,successfully foiling a major terrorist plan.

According to a CTD spokesperson,366 intelligence-based operations were carried out in different districts to prevent any untoward incidents.

During these operations,338 suspects were interrogated,leading to the arrest of 36 terrorists along with weapons, explosives and other prohibited materials.

Two highly dangerous terrorists linked to Fitna-al-Khawarij were arrested from Faisalabad and Jhelum and were found in possession of heavy explosives and weapons.

The arrested individuals, identified as Bacha Khan, Mahfouz, Nawal, Sardar Khan, Zaman, Malik Faiz, Nazir, Moazam, Rab Nawaz, Atta, Muslim, Shah and others,belong to various districts including Lahore, Sahiwal, Chakwal, Okara, Khanewal, Chiniot, Attock, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang and Jhelum.

The spokesperson said that 6,262 grams of explosives,34 detonators, 34 feet of safety fuse wire,five improvised explosive devices (IEDs), pamphlets and magazines of banned organizations,a prima card,mobile phones and cash were recovered from their possession.

He added that the terrorists had planned to target important buildings in different cities.

A total of 31 cases have been registered against the arrested terrorists and further investigations were underway.

In addition, CTD Punjab conducted 7,799 combing operations in coordination with local police and security agencies. During these operations,296,521 individuals were checked,1,261 suspects were detained, 1,090 FIRs were registered and 709 recoveries were made.

The spokesperson said that CTD Punjab was committed to ensuring a safe and secure province and will continue its efforts to bring terrorists and anti-state elements to justice.

Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activity to the CTD helpline at 0800-11111.