KARACHI: The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Sindh, in a joint operation with federal intelligence agency,  has arrested five terrorists linked to banned outfits Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS).

According to CTD officials, the operations were carried out in Manghopir and Kashmir Road areas of Karachi, successfully thwarting a major terrorist plan in the city.

The arrested suspects include: Allah Noor (TTP), Sarfaraz (TTP), Saleem (AQIS), Jehanzeb (AQIS) and Imdadullah (AQIS).

CTD spokesperson said the militants were affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij and AQIS networks. They had received military training in a neighboring country and were planning large-scale attacks in Karachi.

A significant cache of illegal weapons was recovered from their possession during the operation.

Cases have been registered against the suspects at the CTD police station under charges of terrorism and possession of illegal arms. Investigations are underway to identify their facilitators and dismantle the broader network.