On July 28, 2025, Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), in coordination with intelligence agencies, conducted an intelligence-based raid in Karachi’s Manghopir neighborhood, neutralizing three Tehreek‑i‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants—including Zafran, identified as the mastermind of the November 2024 attack on Chinese engineers at a Karachi textile mill.
Investigations about Attack on Chinese Engineers
Investigations revealed Zafran had placed a Rs 20 million bounty on his head, recruiting Sharifullah—then a private security guard—to target Chinese nationals at the Liberty Textile Mill. The attackers injured two Chinese workers during the incident.
This high-stakes operation underscores Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard Chinese citizens and protect projects under the China‑Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), amid rising anti‑China militant activity. According to the National Counter Terrorism Authority, since 2021 over 20 Chinese nationals have been killed and 34 injured in Pakistan-based attacks.
Senior officials reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to counterterrorism and foreign worker protection, reflecting increased pressure from Beijing for stronger security assurances for its nationals on Pakistani soil.
Pakistan continues close monitoring of TTP-linked networks to prevent future attacks and ensure the stability of CPEC-linked industrial and infrastructure initiatives.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 28th, 2025
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