ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Pakistan’s counter-terrorism agency on Saturday reported the arrest of two ISIS members planning suicide attacks in Peshawar, according to Pakistani media.
The Express Tribune identified the individuals as members of Daesh’s Khorasan branch, known as ISIS-K, trained in Afghanistan, and apprehended on Friday, January 12.
The report suggests the targets were Maulana Fazlur Rehman, leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, and Asfandyar Wali Khan of the Awami National Party.
Jamal Hussain Laiqat, a senior official in the counter-terrorism agency, confirmed the arrests in Peshawar, detailing the seizure of two suicide vests, three hand grenades, and other explosive materials.
The suspects reportedly received training in Afghanistan’s Paktia province.
Taliban officials have not yet commented on the arrest.
The Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies noted a 93% increase in suicide attacks in Pakistan following the Taliban’s rise to power.
