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PESHAWAR:
The Anti-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police on Saturday said it had foiled a possible major attack after arresting a woman suspected of planning a suicide attack during a targeted raid in Dera Ismail Khan.
Authorities said the arrest was made in the town of Sheikh Yousaf Khema Basti following intelligence reports that a young woman, allegedly affiliated with a banned militant group, was preparing for a suicide mission.
Based on the notice, a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team carried out an operation at the identified location.
According to a CTD spokesperson, the suspect, identified only by the initial “Z,” was detained and subjected to preliminary questioning.
During interrogation, he allegedly told investigators that he had received training under the direction of a militant commander named Shah Wali, also known as Tariq Kochi, who authorities believe is now deceased.
Police said the woman further claimed that she had recently agreed to carry out a suicide attack. He allegedly revealed that another commander identified as Asim was to provide a suicide vest and a designated target.
During the search operation, officers recovered a bag containing a pistol along with ammunition, two mobile phones allegedly used to maintain contact with members of the banned organisation, a portable battery and other personal items.
Police also said they confiscated a bottle of perfume that they claimed was intended to mask the smell of explosives.
The suspect has been formally arrested and taken to an undisclosed location for further investigation. Authorities said efforts were being made to verify his statements and identify and track his alleged handlers.
Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed praised the CTD personnel involved in the operation and announced a cash reward for the team.
In a statement, the CTD reiterated that indiscriminate operations would continue across the province to thwart terrorist plots and enforce a zero-tolerance policy against anti-state elements.
