Punjab’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) successfully foiled a major terrorist plot targeting Eid-ul-Adha celebrations across multiple cities, showcasing Pakistan’s continued vigilance against security threats. During a late-night intelligence-based operation in Lahore’s Pathan Colony near Jhang Road, CTD commandos arrested three highly-trained terrorists allegedly linked to India’s RAW intelligence agency. The raid yielded a significant weapons cache including explosives, detonators, and sophisticated firearms that were to be used in coordinated attacks on crowded Eid gatherings in Lahore, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Pakpattan.
PAKISTAN ELECTED CHAIR OF UNSC TALIBAN SANCTIONS COMMITTEE:DIPLOMATIC SETBACK FOR INDIA
Investigations revealed disturbing operational details about the apprehended suspects, including their multiple illegal border crossings into India for training and coordination with RAW handlers in Srinagar and Rajasthan. Digital evidence confirmed the terrorists had been using encrypted messaging platforms like WhatsApp to share sensitive location data and finalize attack plans. The cell had conducted extensive reconnaissance of potential soft targets including major mosques, public parks, and marketplaces that would be crowded during Eid festivities.
CTD Faisalabad has registered a formal case (FIR No. 156/25-CTD) under Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act while continuing forensic analysis of seized materials. Interrogations aim to uncover the full extent of the terrorist network, including potential sleeper cells and local facilitators. Security forces have heightened vigilance across Punjab, implementing additional checkpoints and surveillance measures around sensitive locations.
This successful preemptive operation, coming just days before Eid celebrations, potentially averted mass casualties and maintained Pakistan’s tradition of peaceful religious observances. The Punjab Home Department has commended CTD’s professional execution of the raid while urging citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activity through the dedicated CTD helpline. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges Pakistan faces from cross-border terrorism networks, even during sacred religious occasions.
