Commander among two Khawarij neutralised in Taunsa CTD operation

• CTD spokesperson says Intelligence-based operation launched on credible reports of terrorists presence

• Two accomplices escape with injured comrades during exchange of fire

• CM Maryam Nawaz lauds CTD, vows firm action against terrorism

 LAHORE/TAUNSA: The Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on Saturday claimed to have neutralised two terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij — the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) — including a key commander, during an intelligence-based operation, according to an official statement.

According to the CTD spokesperson, the operation was launched after credible intelligence about the presence of 12 to 15 armed militants in the Taman Qaisrani tribal area.

The terrorists were allegedly planning to sabotage populated areas of Koh-e-Suleman, Waha and Taunsa tehsils, he added.

The spokesperson said CTD teams tracked down the militants using modern weaponry, surveillance equipment and drone technology.

“Two terrorists were killed in crossfire, while their two accomplices managed to escape with their injured comrades. Efforts are underway to ascertain the identity of the slain terrorists,” he said.

CM lauds CTD operation in Koh-e-Suleman

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Saturday commended the CTD for killing two TTP terrorists, including a commander, during the operation in the Koh-e-Suleman region.

In a statement, the chief minister praised the CTD team for foiling what she described as the militants’ malicious designs and eliminating a key commander.

“The CTD team that foiled the terrorists’ malicious intentions deserves appreciation,” she said.

She said those who entered Pakistan with terrorist intentions would be dealt with firmly and given a strong response.

Reiterating the government’s stance, she said terrorists were enemies of humanity and had no religion or ideology.

The chief minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and ensuring the protection of citizens’ lives and property.

Separately, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed sorrow over the demise of Safdar Laghari, son of Member National Assembly Sardar Azhar Khan Leghari.

She extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family.