Besham Terror Attack: CTD Makes Breakthrough Arrests
In a significant development, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) announced the apprehension of four crucial operatives associated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) allegedly involved in the Besham terror attack. Last month, the brutal attack claimed the lives of five Chinese nationals and one Pakistani.
Unveiling the Details of the Attack
The horrifying incident occurred on March 26 when a vehicle-borne suicide bomber targeted a convoy escorting Chinese engineers in the remote Besham area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The assailant struck near Lahore Nala on the Karakoram Highway, resulting in six fatalities, including the driver of the targeted vehicle.
CTD’s Swift Action
Identified as mastermind Adil Shehbaz, Muhammad Shafiq Qureshi, Zahid Qureshi, and Nazeer Hussain, the arrested suspects hail from the Mansehra district. According to the CTD spokesperson, the alleged terrorist Shehbaz confessed to his pivotal role in orchestrating the Besham attack, terming the arrests as a significant breakthrough.
Confirmation of TTP’s Involvement
A week after the tragic incident, the CTD confirmed the TTP’s involvement in the terror attack. Investigations revealed that the suicide bomber was brought from Afghanistan, with the explosives-laden vehicle transported through Chaman to DaraZinda town in Dera Ismail Khan district for a substantial sum. Additionally, two facilitators were apprehended from Balochistan.
Demand for Thorough Probe
The Chinese embassy and consulates general in Pakistan strongly condemned the terrorist attack and urged Pakistani authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and punish the perpetrators severely. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured the Chinese Ambassador of a high-level probe to bring the culprits to justice swiftly.
Orders for Comprehensive Investigation
Prime Minister Shehbaz ordered a thorough joint investigation into the Besham terrorist attack, emphasizing the utilization of all state resources. He underscored the need to combat terrorism, emphasizing its trans-national nature and its use by Pakistan’s enemies to hinder progress and disrupt Pakistan-China friendship.
