CTD Claims Arrest of Six Suspects Linked to RAW in Karachi

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) announced the apprehension of six individuals on Saturday, alleging their connections to the Indian intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). They asserted that this operation has led to the discovery of a significant terrorist network along with clandestine safe houses functioning within Karachi.

According to the CTD, this operation was executed in conjunction with various federal intelligence agencies.

The CTD further stated that an entire network allegedly working under RAW’s direction has been brought to light.

Details from the Press Conference

CTD Additional Inspector General Azad Khan stated during a press briefing that the arrests occurred on July 8, relating to the killing of a 45-year-old man in Badin on May 18, 2025.

During questioning, investigators uncovered a broader network purportedly managed by a RAW operative named Sanjay, based overseas. This individual allegedly maintained communication with the suspects and masterminded the plot.

Evidence and Findings

According to Khan, the suspects conducted surveillance in Matli, Badin, for five days prior to the killing. Security camera footage and witness testimonies reportedly identified three of the arrested men at the crime scene. He also mentioned that certain Indian media outlets celebrated the murder, further highlighting RAW’s involvement.

Khan noted that the handler, identified as Sanjay Sanjeev Kumar and based in a Gulf state, had enlisted two Pakistani individuals for the operation.

The network included a gang formed by a suspect named Salman, encompassing individuals named Umair, Sajad, Obaid, and Shakeel.

He revealed that RAW had invested significant funds in the operation, transferring the funds through banking channels and other means. Sanjay, also known as “Fouji”, sent money from Gulf countries to his associate, Salman, who then met with the arrested suspects in Hyderabad. The suspects reportedly stayed in a local hotel for five days before heading to Matli to carry out the plot.

After the incident, Salman is said to have fled to Nepal.

Investigators verified that the funds transferred through bank accounts for the operation served as evidence of terror financing.

Subsequently, a case concerning terrorism financing was also filed.

The arrested individuals were named as Amir Asghar, Sajad, Obaid, Shakeel, Arslan, and Talha Umair.

The CTD official mentioned that the arrests were based on technical evidence gathered during the investigation.

Authorities recovered a 9mm pistol, a 30-bore pistol, mobile phones, and a motorcycle from the suspects, he added.

More Details on the Victim and the Investigation

Khan further stated that the victim, Abdur Rehman, was a local barber known for his community service, who was fatally shot outside his shop in Matli on May 18.

The suspects had previously surveilled the victim on May 13.

The CTD official also claimed that RAW not only directed the operation but also used a separatist group as a proxy.

Investigators uncovered definitive evidence indicating that a banned organization facilitated the attack.

“Such acts of terrorism can be classified as state-sponsored terrorism,” Khan stated, adding that Pakistan intends to raise this issue in all relevant forums.

He emphasized that RAW’s involvement has been thoroughly established, with suspects admitting to acting as agents for the Indian agency. Investigators also possess their travel records.

Khan confirmed that further arrests are anticipated as investigations continue into suspects’ statements, recovered items, bank transactions, and RAW’s overall role.