The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab has claimed to have arrested 33 terrorists belonging to banned organizations during a series of secret operations conducted in various cities across Punjab, including Lahore.

Among those arrested are six terrorists apprehended in Lahore, including a key member of the banned Al-Qaeda. The arrests were also made in various cities, including Nankana Sahib, Bahawalpur and Sheikhupura.

According to CTD officials, the arrested individuals from Lahore include Ayatullah, Faisal, Bakht Jamal, and Hamza. The authorities recovered a significant cache of explosive materials, weapons, hand grenades, equipment for making suicide vests, and a large sum of money from the terrorists.

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The arrested individuals were allegedly planning to target sensitive installations across the region. The CTD has registered cases against the suspects and is currently conducting further investigations to uncover the full extent of their plans and any additional accomplices involved.

On Friday, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir had said the armed forces and the people of Pakistan were determined to foil the nefarious designs of the country's foes. While speaking on Defense and Martyrs Day, he paid tribute to the brave individuals who have sacrificed everything for their nation.

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General Asim Munir emphasized that Pakistan’s commitment to stability was closely tied to the National Action Plan, adding that Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was not a new military operation and would not involve the displacement of any population.

He highlighted that recent terrorist activities were desperate attempts by certain elements to weaken the state, and he assured that those who support and justify these crimes would face increasing pressure in the future.