Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — Security forces have initiated decisive action against militant groups operating in the Bajaur and Khyber districts following the collapse of peace talks between tribal elders and the insurgents, official sources confirmed on Tuesday.
According to government officials, the talks with the Bajaur Amn Jirga broke down after the militants rejected three key demands, the most prominent being the complete expulsion of armed groups from tribal territories.
Terrorist Presence and Displacement
Security reports estimate that around 300 militants are currently based in two locations of Tehsil Mamund in Bajaur, while more than 350 are active in Khyber district. Tehsil Mamund, home to over 300,000 residents, has seen a major displacement, with over 40,000 people fleeing to safer areas in recent days.
Sources further revealed that more than 80% of the militants in both districts are Afghan nationals, underscoring the cross-border nature of the security threat.
Arrangements for Displaced Families
Malakand Division Commissioner Abid Wazir stated that more than 100 government buildings in Khar have been designated to house displaced families. A tent camp is being established at the Khar Sports Complex, equipped with essential services such as food, medical aid, and sanitation.
Curfew and Security Measures
The district administration has imposed strict curfew timings from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm on all main roads leading to Khar, the district headquarters.
In Mamund tehsil, a three-day curfew covering 27 localities is in effect from August 11 (11:00 am) to August 14 (11:00 am). Residents have been instructed to wrap up daily activities by 10:30 am and remain indoors during curfew hours. Authorities have warned that any violations will be met with strict action.
Failed Peace Negotiations
Security sources disclosed that during earlier negotiations with local jirgas, two proposals were presented:
- Militants must leave Bajaur voluntarily.
- Civilians would temporarily evacuate the area to allow for a targeted military operation.
Officials ruled out any direct government-level talks with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or their facilitators, stating that militants were using negotiations as a cover to prepare for further attacks while blending into civilian populations.
Spike in Terror Activity Since 2021
Pakistan has witnessed a sharp rise in terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan since 2021.
A report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) noted that June alone saw 78 terrorist attacks nationwide, resulting in at least 100 deaths — including 53 security personnel, 39 civilians, and six militants. Another 189 people were injured, most of them members of the security forces.
Overall, 175 fatalities were recorded during the month due to militant attacks and counterterrorism operation.
