An injured suspect arrested following the recent attack on a Pakistan Rangers Sindh camp in Karachi has claimed that he is a member of the banned Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA) and alleged that the group received training and logistical support in Afghanistan, according to information released after his interrogation.
Suspect Identified as Usman Ali
The suspect, identified as Usman Ali, claimed he had traveled from Afghanistan's Jalalabad region along with three associates identified as Abdul Hadi, Janan, and Umar Farooq. He said Abdul Hadi was killed during the security operation. According to the suspect's statement, Janan allegedly threw the bomb at the Rangers camp.
Details of the Attack and Arrest
Usman claimed the group crossed into Pakistan seven days before the attack and stayed with Abdul Hadi, a resident of Bajaur, at an under-construction building. He further alleged that the weapons used in the attack had been brought from Waziristan by Abdul Hadi. The suspect said he was shot while attempting to flee during the security forces' response and was subsequently arrested.
Alleged Training and Commander
During interrogation, Usman claimed he belonged to the banned Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and identified the group's Afghanistan-based commander as "Ahrar Maulvi Sahib." He further alleged that all members of the group had undergone militant training in Afghanistan, including training in assembling suicide vests and conducting tactical operations. According to the suspect, the training was conducted by an instructor identified as Umar Qari, while logistical arrangements for the Karachi operation were finalized in Afghanistan. He also claimed Abdul Hadi had previously operated in the area and was familiar with the local terrain.
Analysts React to Cross-Border Concerns
Security and defense analysts said the suspect's statements reinforce Pakistan's longstanding concerns that militant groups continue to use Afghan territory to plan and facilitate attacks inside Pakistan. They noted that Pakistan has repeatedly raised the issue of cross-border militancy with the Afghan interim authorities and has called for effective action against terrorist groups allegedly operating from Afghan soil.
