CTD kills key TTP operative linked to Karachi attacks

KARACHI: A joint operation by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Sindh and a federal civil intelligence agency has resulted in the killing of a key operative of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), with investigators saying a recovered 9mm pistol may provide crucial evidence linking him to several attacks on police personnel in Karachi.

According to a CTD spokesperson, law enforcement personnel conducted the operation in Sindh and exchanged fire with the suspected militant. The operative was injured during the encounter and later died from his wounds.

The operation is being described as a significant development in the investigation into a series of attacks targeting police officials in Karachi.

Pistol Becomes Key Piece of Evidence

A 9mm pistol was recovered from the possession of the killed suspect following the encounter.

CTD officials said forensic examination of the weapon established a match with firearms used in several terrorism cases registered in Karachi, including cases investigated by the CTD.

According to officials, the weapon was linked to FIR No. 510/2025, registered at Gizri police station, concerning firing on a police mobile.

The same weapon was also reportedly matched with evidence from FIR No. 226/2026, registered at Manghopir police station, involving an attack on two police officials. The attack resulted in the martyrdom of one constable, while another police official was injured.

Investigators further linked the pistol to FIR No. 386/2026, also registered at Manghopir police station, concerning an attack on Sub-Inspector Arab Khan.

CTD officials also said forensic evidence connected the recovered firearm with the martyrdom of police official Khadim and other acts of terrorism in Karachi.

Search for Suspect’s Associates Underway

The killing of the suspected operative is not being treated as the end of the investigation. Instead, authorities have launched efforts to trace individuals who may have worked with him or supported the network.

The CTD has constituted a special team comprising officers and personnel to identify and apprehend the suspect’s alleged associates.

Officials said further investigation is continuing, while legal proceedings related to the cases and recovered evidence are also underway.

The joint operation comes as security agencies continue efforts to disrupt militant networks involved in targeted attacks against police and law enforcement personnel.

For investigators, the forensic match of the recovered pistol could prove particularly important, potentially helping connect previously separate cases and providing leads about the wider network behind attacks in Karachi.

Authorities are now focusing on those leads as the investigation moves into its next phase, with efforts underway to determine the full extent of the suspect’s activities and identify other members of the alleged TTP network.