Pakistan: CTD, Intelligence Agency Arrest Wanted Militant Linked to Banned Sipah-e-Muhammad in Karachi

Washington (Shabbir Turi) — Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), in cooperation with a federal intelligence agency, has arrested a highly wanted alleged militant linked to the banned Sipah-e-Muhammad organization in Karachi, officials said Friday.

The CTD said the operation was conducted jointly with a federal civilian intelligence agency.

The arrested suspect was identified as Syed Muhammad Askari Abidi, whom authorities described as a “target killer” affiliated with the banned Sipah-e-Muhammad organization. A hand grenade and a Kalashnikov rifle were reportedly recovered from his possession.

According to the CTD, Abidi’s name was included in the most-wanted list in the department’s Red Book, Edition 10. He had allegedly remained in hiding for an extended period and was attempting to reorganize his network in Karachi.

Police said preliminary investigations indicated that Abidi had disclosed his alleged involvement in several incidents of terrorism and target killings.

The authorities said the suspect admitted to involvement in various attacks alongside other alleged militants. According to the CTD, he and his associates would conduct reconnaissance of their targets before carrying out attacks.

Several target-killing cases have been registered against Abidi at different police stations in Karachi, the CTD said.

Wanted in Maulana Azam Tariq Murder Case

Abidi was also wanted in connection with the murder case of former National Assembly member and banned Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan leader Maulana Azam Tariq, according to Pakistan’s federal government most-wanted list.

The government’s list identifies several other suspects in the case. They include Moajiz Abbas Rizvi, who is listed in Pakistan, while Syed Kashif Ali Raza, Syed Kalb Abbas Kazmi and Asad Abbas are listed as fugitives in neighboring Iran.

Authorities have not provided further details about Abidi’s alleged role in the Azam Tariq murder case.

The CTD said investigations were continuing to trace Abidi’s alleged associates and the wider network. Authorities are also conducting further operations to arrest other suspected accomplices and facilitators, according to the statement.