CTD arrests 'SRA militant' in Hyderabad raid

Explosives seized, accomplice escapes as investigators probe wider network

HYDERABAD:

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Hyderabad on Friday arrested a suspected militant linked to the banned Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA) during an intelligence-based operation, officials said.

According to a CTD spokesperson, the suspect, identified as Imam Bakhsh Khaskheli, was taken into custody within the jurisdiction of Hosri police station. He was wanted in multiple terrorism-related cases and had been absconding.

During the operation, counterterror force recovered a hand grenade, explosive material, detonators, a remote control device, a battery, detonating cord, and empty shells of a 30-bore weapon and a submachine gun from his possession.

However, his accomplice, Somar Mallah, managed to escape after opening fire on police. Raids are under way to arrest the fleeing suspect.

Police have registered cases against Khaskheli under the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Explosives Act, among other charges. Officials described him as an ideological worker and facilitator of the banned outfit.

Investigators said the suspect had links with other arrested militants, including Mubashir Laghari, Ali Haider Katriyo, Sarang Mirani and Mehran Mirani. He is believed to have been involved in financing militant activities and supplying explosive material.

During initial interrogation, Khaskheli reportedly confessed that the explosives were provided by his accomplice and admitted to planning attacks targeting law enforcement vehicles.

CTD officials further revealed that he was allegedly recruited by SRA commander Asghar Shah through the messaging platform Telegram and remained in contact with other operatives.

The suspect is also accused of involvement in firing incidents on cargo trailers in Sujawal, attacks on vehicles of the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), as well as incidents of stone-pelting and extortion.

Police added that Khaskheli was involved in radicalising youth and inciting them towards anti-state activities. Further investigations are under way, and officials expect more disclosures from the suspect.