KARACHI: The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), in collaboration with an intelligence agency, has apprehended an alleged target killer associated with the banned Zainabiyoun Brigade during a joint operation near University Road, officials confirmed on Friday.
The suspect, identified as Farhan, is believed to have been involved in multiple sectarian killings across the city.
According to investigators, he played a role in the 2023 murder of mosque imam Qaiser Farooq, who was attacked in Federal B Area’s Block 20 on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal.
Authorities said the suspect carried out the assault with an accomplice as part of a directive aimed at inciting sectarian unrest. A young boy, Umar, was also injured in the incident after being struck by a stray bullet.
During the operation, officials recovered a 9mm pistol allegedly used in the killing. CTD stated that further investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to track down additional suspects linked to the case.
In a related development, CTD had earlier arrested four operatives of the same network in January 2026. Among them was Rayat Hussain, also known as Molvi, who is described as a key facilitator behind several high-profile attacks, including the killing of journalist and anchor Imtiaz Mir.
Authorities revealed that Rayat Hussain, operating under the codename “Hamza,” was responsible for arranging weapons, logistics, safe houses, and funding for the group. Despite being highly educated and serving as a madrassa teacher, he was allegedly deeply involved in militant activities.
Officials further disclosed that he had also supplied arms to another suspect, Masoom Raza, who has been accused of carrying out multiple targeted killings with the assistance of accomplices, including Israr Gilgiti.
Law enforcement agencies say operations are ongoing to dismantle the network and prevent further incidents in the city.
