More than 8,000 militants linked to the “Fitna al-Khawarij” group are reportedly hiding in various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to senior government officials. These militants are said to have entered Pakistan from Afghanistan through unmarked routes. They are now based in Peshawar, Tank, D.I. Khan, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Swat, Shangla, and merged tribal districts.
Officials revealed that around 800 militants are present specifically in Bajaur and Khyber districts. These groups reportedly use civilian areas as cover, making it difficult for security forces to respond effectively. They have also set up illegal checkpoints on CPEC routes, including roads connecting D.I. Khan, Bannu, and Tank.
The militants’ tactics have made operations more dangerous for security personnel. Officials said that security forces have suffered casualties during retaliatory operations due to these challenges. However, in recent weeks, forces in North Waziristan and Bajaur have killed at least 80 infiltrating militants, according to the government.
Inspector General of KP Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, confirmed that the threat is serious and ongoing. He stated that during the last month alone, security forces conducted 190 operations, killing 39 militants and arresting 110 others. He added that forces have begun joint patrols with motorway police to secure CPEC routes.
KP Information Adviser, Barrister Saif, said the government is fully aware of the situation. He blamed the infiltration on militants coming from Afghanistan. He stressed that Pakistan’s security forces are fighting back strongly and will not allow terrorists to destabilize the region. Tribal elders have also urged the provincial government to raise this issue with Afghan authorities.