ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A meticulously planned terror attack was averted late Sunday after security forces killed two suspected militants during an intelligence-based operation on the outskirts of Peshawar, the Counter‑Terrorism Department (CTD) announced.
Operation Details and Suspect Profiles
The operation took place in the Shamshatoo locality of Urmar Payan, historically known for housing a large Afghan refugee settlement.
One suspect has been identified as a suicide bomber, while the other was allegedly his handler. Intelligence teams had been monitoring them for several weeks.
The CTD confirmed that both militants had crossed into Pakistan from Afghanistan. The bomber, *Munir Ahmed*, was a wanted fugitive from Nangarhar and entered from Khost.
Security forces seized a cache of weapons at the site, including a suicide vest, submachine gun, pistol, ammunition, and explosives.
Official Statements
“A major terror attack was averted… The suicide bomber, identified as Munir Ahmed, was reportedly being traced by intelligence services since November 2024.”
Authorities believe their target was a sensitive installation in Peshawar. The identity of Munir’s handler is under further investigation. A case has been registered and a special investigation team formed to continue the inquiry.
Security Situation in Pakistan
Pakistan witnessed a modest rise in militant activity in May 2025, contrary to expectations during the tense stand-off with India. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS):
85 attacks* were recorded in May, up from *81* in April.
Total fatalities reached *113*, which included 52 security personnel, 46 civilians, 11 militants, and 4 peace committee members.
Injuries increased to *182*, comprising 130 civilians, 47 security forces, four militants, and one peace committee member.
The number of militants killed in operations rose significantly to *59*, while five security personnel lost their lives in these engagements.
Combined casualties in the month reached *172*, involving 57 security staff, 65 militants, 46 civilians, and four peace committee members.
According to PICSS, the majority of violence occurred in *Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa*, accounting for 82 of the 85 incidents. Balochistan alone saw 35 attacks, resulting in 51 deaths—including 30 civilians and 18 security personnel—and approximately 100 injuries.
