Facilitator, handler of Islamabad suicide attack arrested, sources say

ISLAMABAD: Security agencies have arrested the facilitator and handler linked to the recent suicide attack at the Islamabad Judicial Complex, according to security sources. Both suspects have reportedly been moved to an undisclosed location for interrogation.

Sources reveal that the facilitator had been residing in Rawalpindi for the past month and was apprehended from the Dhok Paracha area. The handler was detained in a separate operation conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Investigations suggest that before the deadly explosion, the facilitator and the suicide bomber carried out reconnaissance of the Islamabad Judicial Complex. The facilitator is also believed to have surveyed several key locations in Rawalpindi Cantonment in the days leading up to the attack.

At least 12 people were martyred and 30 others injured in the blast, which targeted the judicial complex earlier this week. According to sources, both suspects were traced and arrested within 40 hours of the incident through intelligence-based operations. Security agencies are continuing investigations to identify any further network involved in planning or executing the attack.

Meanwhile, the federal capital returns to normalcy as the Judicial Complex was reopened today. A large number of lawyers and litigants arrived to attend their scheduled hearings. Strict security arrangements have been implemented, and everyone entering the premises is being thoroughly checked.

Officials said clerks accompanying lawyers are being allowed entry only after showing their official cards, while litigants are permitted inside following detailed security screening and registration of their personal information.

Meanwhile, the legal community has announced a two-day strike to protest against the incident. The Bar Association said that a complete strike will be observed on November 13 and 14, during which lawyers will boycott court proceedings.