Three Suspects Plotting Christmas Terror Attack Reportedly Detained in Pakistan

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Three terrorists, who were plotting to carry out attacks during Christmas celebrations, have been arrested by Pakistani authorities following a counterterrorism operation in Pakistan's southwestern Punjab province, local media reported Friday.

During the operation in the city of Muzaffargarh, the authorities seized hand grenades and ammunition, the Geo TV broadcaster reported.

According to the TV channel, two other terrorists were killed in the city of Multan in the same province.

READ MORE: Explosion in Christian Church in Pakistan: 9 Reportedly Killed, 50 Injured

WARNING: the following photos can offend sensibilities.

Merry Christmas Pakistan style! Two suicide bombers attack #Quetta’s Bethel Memorial Methodist Church killing 9 and wounding 50 plus. Attack was claimed by Islamic State. pic.twitter.com/cIRtmy3Fsj

— Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) December 17, 2017

The news comes in the wake of the recent attack on a Methodist church on Sunday, when two suicide attackers killed at least nine worshippers and injured dozens more. The Daesh terror group reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

The number of Christians in Pakistan is estimated at 1.6% of the country's population of 200 million people, which makes them one of the largest non-Muslim minorities.