Large terror bid thwarted in Karachi; over four tonnes of explosives seized

KARACHI: Law enforcement agencies have foiled a major terrorist plan after recovering more than four tonnes of explosives during a targeted operation in Karachi’s Raees Goth area, security officials confirmed on Monday.

The operation, carried out on intelligence obtained from arrested militants, led to the seizure of a mini truck, dozens of explosive-filled drums, and gas cylinders. Officials said the explosives had been stored in drums and were being transported into the city.

According to authorities, a total of 60 drums containing explosives and five gas cylinders were recovered. The Bomb Disposal Squad was immediately deployed and successfully neutralised the seized material, preventing any potential damage.

Security officials said the action was part of broader counterterrorism efforts underway across the country, as Pakistan continues to confront militant activity that has increased since the Afghan Taliban assumed control in Kabul.

Despite recent challenges, official data shows a decline in militant attacks toward the end of 2025. The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) reported a nearly 17 per cent reduction in terrorist incidents in December and a 9 per cent decrease in November.

The security situation remains complex, however. Pakistan had shut the Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan on October 12 following attacks on multiple Pakistani military posts by Afghan Taliban-linked militants.

CRSS data further indicates that overall violence rose by 34 per cent in 2025, making it the deadliest year in the past decade. The report notes a sustained increase in violence over the last five years, beginning in 2021 alongside political changes in Afghanistan.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained the most affected province, accounting for more than 96 per cent of fatalities and nearly 93 per cent of all violent incidents recorded during 2025.

In Sindh, authorities documented 51 incidents during the year, resulting in 56 deaths and 40 injuries, representing a small fraction of the nationwide total.

The report also revealed that over 2,060 people were killed during at least 392 security operations in 2025, with militants accounting for more than 60 per cent of the fatalities, exceeding the combined losses of civilians and security personnel.

Web Desk