CTD claims arrest of two SRA militants

KARACHI:

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Karachi, in collaboration with a sensitive agency, arrested two wanted militants of the banned Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA) and recovered explosives during a joint operation near railway tracks in Machhar Colony.

The suspects, identified as Sarmad Ali Raza and Ghaniullah alias Ghani Amaan Chandio, were found in possession of two hand grenades and explosive material. CTD claims they were planning attacks on law enforcement agencies, particularly Sindh Police and CTD personnel.

However, a petition filed in the Sindh High Court by Chandio's family alleges he was taken from a hospital room on Sharah-e-Quaideen while visiting his newborn twins. The court has issued notices to IG Sindh and other parties for November 14.

Following the arrest, Chandio's family staged a 20-hour sit-in on the National Highway, dispersing peacefully after assurances from senior police officials.

CTD spokesperson said Chandio was involved in radicalising youth and recruiting students for terrorist activities. During interrogation, the suspects disclosed names of accomplices, including Noor Chandio, prompting CTD to intensify efforts to dismantle the network.

The arrested individuals are already nominated in five cases under the Anti-Terrorism and Explosives Acts-three in CTD Hyderabad, one in Jamshoro, and one in CTD Larkana. CTD Karachi has registered two new cases against them.

Investigations are ongoing to trace remaining operatives and prevent planned attacks.