NACTA sounds alarm on possible terrorist threat during PTI protest

ISLAMABAD: The National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) raised concerns about a potential terrorist threat from Fitna-al-Khwarij group during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for Sunday (today) in Islamabad.

Intelligence reports indicate that the militants may attempt to cross into Pakistan from Afghanistan, with fears of possible attacks in major urban centres.

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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Home and Tribal Affairs Department also issued warning regarding the PTI protest, with plans highlighted for a suicide bombing by the militant.

Despite significant restrictions imposed by the federal government to deter the gathering, the PTI remains resolute in its plans to proceed with the protest.

The PTI’s Punjab Information Secretary, Shaukat Basra, criticised the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) run government for what he described as efforts to stifle a peaceful protest.

He stated that his party supporters will still make their way to Islamabad despite roadblock and other setbacks.

The PTI claims that the Sunday’s rally would be the largest show of support in the party’s history. In a recent meeting, party leaders discussed alternative routes and strategies to circumvent the closures, including the use of heavy machinery to clear pathways.

In response, authorities imposed section 144 across Punjab. banning public gatherings and rallies for three days, from November 23 to November 25.

A comprehensive traffic management plan was also put in place. Major routes leading to Islamabad were obstructed with shipping containers, and a heavy presence of police, Frontier Corps (FC), and rangers was deployed in sensitive areas.

Key highways, including Srinagar Highway, have been closed with law enforcement conducting security checks on commuters.

Sources indicate that the alert was prompted by “technical and human” intelligence gathered by NACTA.

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According to reports, militants have made preparations in Afghanistan and entered Pakistan on the night of November 19 to November 20, with intensions to establish a presence in major urban areas.

The Fitna-al-Khawarij is believed to be considering targeting the PTI protest for their own interests. NACTA urged authorities to maintain heightened security measures to prevent any potential terrorist attacks.