Massive Haul: Pakistan Agencies Seize Gold, Foreign Currency Worth PKR 7.2 Crore from TLP Headquarters

In a significant and coordinated operation, Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Punjab, in collaboration with various intelligence agencies, conducted a sweeping raid on the central headquarters of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) in Lahore. The pre-dawn operation, executed with precision, led to the discovery and seizure of an astonishing cache of gold, foreign currency, and local Pakistani rupees, collectively valued at approximately PKR 7.2 crore (roughly USD 2.6 million).

The extensive crackdown was initiated based on credible intelligence reports indicating the TLP's alleged involvement in illicit financial activities, specifically 'hundi' and 'hawala' operations – informal money transfer systems often exploited for illegal and unregulated transactions.

Furthermore, the intelligence pointed towards the organization's potential role in illegal funding for terror activities, raising serious concerns for national security.

During the meticulous search of the TLP headquarters, located in a bustling area of Lahore, authorities uncovered a substantial quantity of physical assets.

These included gold estimated to be worth PKR 3 crore, a significant amount of foreign currency comprising USD 120,000, GBP 80,000, Euro 50,000, and Saudi Riyal 100,000, alongside PKR 3 crore in local currency. The sheer volume and variety of the seized assets underscore the sophisticated nature of the alleged financial network.

Sources within the intelligence community revealed that the raid was the culmination of weeks of surveillance and investigation into the TLP's financial dealings.

The organization, known for its strong street power and frequent nationwide protests on religious issues, has been under scrutiny for some time regarding its funding mechanisms. The current operation marks a direct and robust challenge to its alleged illicit financial infrastructure.

Following the successful raid and seizures, law enforcement agencies have registered formal cases against unknown individuals involved in these alleged financial crimes.

The charges include terror financing and violations of anti-money laundering acts, reflecting the gravity of the accusations. Senior officials have indicated that the investigations are ongoing and are expected to uncover further details regarding the extent of the TLP's alleged financial network and its beneficiaries.

This unprecedented move against a prominent political-religious entity like the TLP sends a clear message about the government's resolve to curb illegal financial flows and combat potential terror financing within the country.

The authorities remain tight-lipped on further details as the sensitive investigation progresses, but the initial findings have already sparked widespread debate and attention both nationally and internationally.