Two terrorists involved in Dasu hydel project attack killed in crossfire: CTD
1. CTD says terrorists were on death row, they were being transferred from prison due to security concerns
LAHORE: Two terrorists, including the mastermind behind the July 2021 attack on the Dasu Hydropower Project, were killed by their accomplices while being transferred from Sahiwal prison, law enforcement officials reported.
According to a spokesperson for the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), the two terrorists, who were on death row, were being moved due to security concerns. "Their accomplices opened fire on the police during the transfer, attempting to free them, but instead ended up killing both," the spokesperson said. The incident occurred on Sammundari Road in Sahiwal.
The July 14, 2021, explosion had killed at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals working on the Dasu Hydropower Project (DHPP). Investigations revealed the attack was a terrorist act, linked to a collaboration between India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security (NDS).
Following the attack, the Chinese company working on the project temporarily suspended operations, citing security concerns, and laid off all but essential Pakistani staff. However, the company later resumed work a few months after the suspension.
In November 2022, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) sentenced both terrorists to death on 13 counts for their involvement in the DHPP attack. They were also fined Rs40 million and sentenced to around 800 years of imprisonment, including life sentences.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office welcomed the verdict, stating it demonstrated the country's strong commitment to counterterrorism. "The proactive investigation, prosecution, and judgment in this case reaffirm Pakistan's dedication to combating terrorism," the statement said.
