Major terror attack bid foiled in Pakistan

A major terror attack in Pakistan was on Sunday foiled, with security forces killing seven militants who were plotting to target key government installations in Punjab province, the latest in a series of similar assaults.

According to the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab police, it had received information that around 10 to 12 militants were planning to attack sensitive installations and buildings of law enforcement agencies here.

“A CTD team along with police commandos raided a house in Chak Char Rasala Sheikhupura district some 50 km from Lahore in early hours on Sunday. The team asked them to surrender,” the CTD said.

“But instead they opened fire on the raiding team which returned the fire, killing seven militants on the spot. The remaining three managed to flee,” it said.

Explosives, hand grenades, kalashnikovs a large quantity of bullets, three motorcycles and maps of sensitive buildings have been recovered from their hideout. The CTD has shifted the bodies to a mortuary for autopsy and the outfit to which the militants belonged is yet to be ascertained.

On July 23, five Taliban militants who were plotting to attack government installations and personnel of law enforcement agencies were killed in an encounter by security forces in Punjab province.

Pakistan Army Chief Raheel Sharif on Sunday said that the forces will not allow the terrorists to take the nation hostage.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of Shandoor Polo Festival, General Sharif said the carnival will not only promote national and international tourism but it will also convey message to the terrorists that Pakistanis will continue celebrating their cultural events. He vowed to carry on anti-terrorism operation Zarb-e-Azb against the criminals and militants for prolonged tranquillity in the region. General Sharif said that terrorists will not be left free as operation is ardently leading against them.

He hoped one day Pakistan will be the mark of prosperity and peace in the world and nation is completely backing Army.

Meanwhile, seven terrorists, who were plotting attacking Lahore, were killed whereas 3 fled away as Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) operated near Sheikhupura, officials said.

In Chak Rasala 4, the firing exchange between terrorists and CTD took place, as CTD recovered hand grenades, 3 Kalashnikovs, 4 pistols, hundreds of bullets and three motorcycles.

Explosives and detonators were also found along with the maps of different places of Lahore and Sheikhupura. The terrorists were from banned outfit, said an official.