CTD says man held in Karachi for allegedly supplying drone equipment to TTP

KARACHI: The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) said on Saturday that it had arrested a man in Karachi during a joint operation with a federal civilian intelligence agency over allegations that he supplied drone technology and electronic equipment to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

According to a CTD spokesperson, the suspect is the brother of Talal alias Zaid Baloch, whom the department described as an active TTP member based in Afghanistan and one of CTD’s most-wanted militants. In an official statement, the department termed the arrest a major development and alleged that the suspect had an important role in arranging modern drone technology and material linked to explosives for use in militant activities.

The CTD said the suspect, acting on his brother’s instructions, allegedly bought drone motors, propellers, batteries, controller boards and other electronic components that could be used in making improvised explosive devices. Investigators further claimed that he was also involved in procuring Google Pixel 3 and OnePlus mobile phones, along with Mini DJI and Air 2 drones.

Officials said the items were purchased from different markets in Karachi, including Saddar, Bolton Market and Ranchore Line, as well as through online platforms. During initial questioning, the suspect allegedly confessed that the equipment and electronic parts were meant for preparing IEDs, suicide jackets and carrying out drone-based attacks, according to the CTD.

The department said two kilogrammes of explosive material, a drone, a battery and a remote control were recovered from the suspect’s possession. It added that further investigation is in progress.

Sindh minister praises operation

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar praised CTD Sindh and the federal civilian intelligence agency for what he described as a successful joint operation. He also commended CTD officials, including DIG Azfar Mahesar and SSP Irfan Bahadur, for their professionalism and coordination.

Lanjar said the operation showed effective intelligence-sharing and law enforcement agencies’ “timely response”.

He said the arrest was an important breakthrough against networks facilitating militant organisations and added that efforts would continue to dismantle remaining links and bring facilitators to justice.