Afghan ISIS mastermind arrested in Pakistan mosque attack

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi addressed a press conference in Islamabad on Saturday, reiterating his earlier statement regarding the arrest of key figures behind a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Tarlai, Islamabad. He confirmed that the mastermind was an Afghan national linked to Daesh, a banned extremist group.

Naqvi explained during the briefing that Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) forces had apprehended all individuals involved in the attack. The incident occurred during Friday prayers and resulted in at least 32 deaths and over 169 injuries. A police sub-inspector was tragically martyred while assisting in the operation.

According to Naqvi, four facilitators were also seized following raids in Peshawar and Nowshera. He emphasized that planning for the attack took place in Afghanistan, where at least twenty-one terrorist organizations are currently active. “These terrorists work solely for money and are funded by India,” he declared, asserting foreign involvement in Pakistan’s destabilization.

Naqvi underscored that Pakistan is engaged in a state of war against terrorism and appealed to citizens for their cooperation to combat militancy effectively. He noted that security agencies continuously thwart the malicious designs of these terrorists.

In conclusion, Naqvi asserted that India continues to fuel such activities post-conflicts, hinting at foreign interference. However, he emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to win this battle regardless of budgetary disparities with India. “We will respond diplomatically and by all means necessary,” he concluded.