On 5 July, the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) announced that it had thwarted a significant terrorist attack in Taunsa Sharif, resulting in the death of five militants during an intelligence-based operation (IBO). The operation took place near the Tri-Border village, where officers came under fire and engaged in a firefight that lasted several hours. Five terrorists were killed, while another five escaped into the forest, injured. Subsequent searches revealed firearms, grenades, explosives, and ammunition, confirming the scale of the threat. According to the CTD, the militants belonged to the Fitna al Hindustan group, which the Pakistani government has accused of carrying out subversive acts allegedly linked to Indian interference. In a separate operation in Bahawalpur, another terrorist was killed. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the security forces for their effectiveness and swift response. The CTD team recovered a large quantity of ammunition, hand grenades, and sensitive material that the terrorists had intended to use in a major sabotage operation. According to official sources, raids are underway to trace the escaped terrorists, and further investigations are ongoing.
Massimo Serresi
