Suspect played central role in acquiring modern drone technology and explosive material for terrorists
KARACHI:
The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), in a joint operation with a federal civil intelligence agency, arrested a suspect in Karachi for allegedly purchasing and supplying drone technology and electronic equipment to the banned group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for use in drone-based attacks, officials said on Saturday.
According to the CTD, the suspect is the brother of Talal alias Zaid Baloch, an alleged active member of the banned TTP, currently based in Afghanistan and listed among the department’s most wanted terrorists.
Authorities described the arrest as a significant development, saying the suspect played a central role in acquiring modern drone technology and explosive material allegedly used in terrorist activities.
In a statement, the CTD said the suspect allegedly acted on the instructions of his brother and was involved in the purchase of drone motors, propellers, batteries, control boards and other electronic components that could be used in the preparation of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Officials further alleged that he purchased Google Pixel 3 and OnePlus mobile phones, as well as DJI Mini and Air 2 drones.
Investigators said the equipment was sourced from various markets in Karachi, including Saddar, Bolton Market and Ranchore Line, as well as online platforms.
During initial interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted that the equipment and electronic components were intended for use in preparing improvised explosive devices, suicide vests and drone attacks, the CTD claimed.
Sindh Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar congratulated CTD Sindh and the Federal Civil Intelligence Agency for carrying out what he described as a successful joint operation.
