By Khawaja Hamza
Karachi, In a significant breakthrough in Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, three terrorists affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), including the mastermind behind the November 2024 attack on Chinese engineers, were killed during a joint operation led by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and intelligence agencies in Karachi’s Manghopir area.
The operation, conducted over the weekend, was confirmed by Additional Inspector-General of Police (CTD), Azad Khan, who stated that the key suspect, identified as Zafran, was directly involved in orchestrating the targeted attack on two Chinese nationals in Karachi’s SITE area on November 5, 2024. Two of his accomplices were also eliminated during the raid.
“This successful operation underscores our unwavering resolve to dismantle terrorist networks operating within our borders,” said Khan. “The targeted individuals were instrumental in planning and executing attacks against foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens working on critical development projects.”
The November 2024 incident, initially believed to stem from a personal altercation, involved a private security guard shooting and injuring two Chinese engineers at a textile mill. However, subsequent investigations revealed deeper links to the TTP, as law enforcement agencies pursued leads indicating a planned act of terror. The security guard involved had fled the scene but was later identified, and an FIR was registered shortly after the incident.
Senior CTD officer Raja Umer Khattab detailed that the operation in Manghopir was the culmination of months of intelligence gathering and surveillance. “These terrorists were operating covertly, but our coordinated efforts with intelligence units ensured their activities came to a decisive end,” he said.
The attack on Chinese nationals was among a series of incidents over the past few years that have raised alarm in Beijing and Islamabad. Since 2021, at least 20 Chinese citizens have lost their lives, and over 30 have been injured in terror-related incidents in Pakistan, according to the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta).
In light of growing security threats, the Government of Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to protecting Chinese citizens and infrastructure tied to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These projects are critical to the strategic partnership between the two nations and the broader vision for regional connectivity and economic growth.
This latest operation sends a clear message that Pakistan will not tolerate attempts to undermine its international partnerships or target its allies. Enhanced security protocols and coordinated counterterrorism operations will continue across high-risk zones, particularly where foreign nationals are active.
