In a series of intelligence-based operations, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Punjab and the police arrested 24 terrorists across Punjab, while a major TTP operative was killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, authorities reported on Saturday.

According to CTD officials, the slain militant, identified as Hammad Zahir, belonged to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan’s (TTP) Intikhab Alam group.

The operations in Mardan and Nowshera recovered an assault rifle, two magazines, and multiple rounds of ammunition.

Hammad Zahir was wanted in several criminal cases, including the targeted killing of Constable Maqsood, murder, and extortion.

Meanwhile, the CTD Punjab conducted raids in Lahore, Sahiwal, Toba Tek Singh, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, and Sialkot.

At least 24 terrorists, including a high-risk Fitna Al Khawarij militant, Shakir, were arrested as a result of these raids. Shakir was arrested following a in Lahore.

Security forces also recovered explosive materials, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 24 detonators, fuse wires, pamphlets, cash, and primer cords.

Other suspects arrested in these raids include Shakeel Ahmed, Mohibullah, Hayat, Ajab Khan, Shoaib, Irfan, Amjad, and Ali Raza.

Initial investigations suggest that the group was planning to carry out attacks at multiple locations to spread fear and terror.

In a separate development in Balochistan, 75 militants of the Fitna Al Hindustan group, led by BRA commander Wadera Noor Ali Chakrani, surrendered to authorities and announced the formation of a peace force.

Local dignitaries, media representatives, and officials witnessed the surrender ceremony.

Some BRA terrorists attacked the surrendering militants.

CTD spokespersons emphasised that operations against terrorism would continue uninterrupted until the complete eradication of militant networks.