News Desk: Police have made significant progress in the investigation into the historic Rs11.5 Crore robbery at Cut Piece Market, arresting three suspects, including an inspector of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). Authorities have also recovered some amount during the operation.
A senior police official confirmed that CTD Inspector Aurangzeb Khokhar, posted in the Special Operations Wing, was taken into custody on Monday after evidence linked him to the crime. Earlier, police constable Mahmood and Habib, a resident of Qila Abdullah, were also arrested in connection with the case.
Suspected Involvement of More Police Personnel
Police sources said investigators suspect the involvement of another police officer and several other personnel who allegedly fled after the robbery. Law enforcement agencies have launched targeted raids at multiple locations to trace and arrest the remaining suspects.
The robbery took place in December 2025 within the jurisdiction of City Police Station, at a shopping centre located in Quetta’s busy Cut Piece Market.
According to the FIR, trader Asadullah Loni, who runs a solar and garments business, had collected Rs11.5 Crore from fellow traders at a private bank branch in Kandahari Bazaar on December 1. The cash was transported to his shopping centre office and secured in a locker. The market was closed at around 8:30 pm.
Later that night, the market administration informed the owner about a break-in. Upon inspection, it was found that the office and shopping centre locks had been forced open and the entire cash amount was missing.
Armed Men Overpowered Guard, Fled With Cash
The security guard told investigators that around 3:00 am, armed men arrived in three vehicles, broke open the main gate, restrained him, and entered the shopping centre. Four of the suspects reportedly accessed the office and escaped with the cash within minutes.
Following initial inquiries, the case was transferred to the Serious Crime Investigation Wing (SCIW). Investigators recorded statements from traders, employees, and the guard, reviewed CCTV footage, and used modern technology along with intelligence networks to identify the suspects.
Qila Abdullah Gang Linked to Crime
Investigations revealed the involvement of a gang based in Qila Abdullah, known for targeting individuals withdrawing large sums from banks and those engaged in hundi-hawala transactions. The gang allegedly planned the robbery in coordination with police officials.
CTD Inspector Remanded to Police Custody
After his arrest, Inspector Aurangzeb Khokhar was presented before Judicial Magistrate Quetta Saifullah Tareen, who approved a three-day physical remand and handed him over to the SCIW for further interrogation.
Police officials said operations are ongoing to apprehend other suspects involved in the robbery, and further arrests are expected soon.
This case has emerged as one of the largest cash robbery incidents in Balochistan’s history, raising serious concerns over the alleged involvement of insiders from law enforcement agencies.
