IB, CTD foiled major terrorist plot during SCO Summit

ISLAMABAD: The Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) thwarted a plot of multiple suicide attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) aimed at the SCO Summit in Islamabad last month, and detained six terrorists, mostly Afghan nationals, and their facilitators.

The SCO Summit, which saw the participation of leaders from Russia, China, India, and various Central Asian countries, proceeded without disruption.

On October 14, Intelligence Bureau (IB) received credible reports from sources within the terrorist group indicating an imminent suicide attack aimed at the summit. The intelligence pointed at a suicide bomber, identified as Jehanzaib alias Hussain, who had been dispatched from Afghanistan with orders to target the conference. Apparently the militants took a route from South Punjab to reach Islamabad. The IB and the CTD

in Rawalpindi mounted an intense operation, intercepting the operational commander linked to the attack. The principal terrorist, however, evaded capture temporarily.

The following day, a concerted crackdown on possible escape routes on the outskirts of Islamabad was launched.

To escape arrest, the terrorist, who was travelling in a transport vehicle, blew himself up near a toll plaza on motoway. The blast also killed three passengers and injured several others.

The explosion, initially reported as a CNG cylinder mishap, eliminated the bomber but required a delicate narrative to prevent political and diplomatic fallout during the summit.

Prime Minister Sharif and COAS General Asim Munir have lauded the IB and CTD for their decisive action and underscored the importance of their unified commitment to securing the nation.

Analysts have emphasized the seamless coordination between civilian and military entities as crucial to safeguarding Pakistan during this potential crisis, highlighting the bravery and strategic acumen displayed by involved teams.

Key officials privy to this operation believe that by averting this threat, Pakistan not only ensured the peaceful conduct of the SCO Summit but also sent a strong message to adversaries intent on destabilising the nation. The success stands as a testament to the relentless vigilance of Pakistan’s security forces, signaling a firm commitment to national security.

IB’s Deputy DG Tariq Mahmmod was formally approached for his version, but declined to confirm or deny the report.