Security forces in district Khyber neutralised four terrorists affiliated with the banned Tehreek e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), including a key commander, during an operation in the Meri Khel area. According to security sources, multiple additional militants are reported to have sustained injuries as well.
Sources said the operation in Meri Khel resulted in the elimination of four wanted terrorists, among them the highly sought after commander Abu Zar Tashkeel. The bodies have been taken into custody, and security forces have launched a search operation in the surrounding area.
The Complex Security Environment in Tirah Valley
These developments come as security forces continue to confront a challenging security landscape in Khyber, particularly in Tirah Valley, where the narco politico terror nexus complicates counter terrorism efforts.
On the night of November 13, Pakistani security forces successfully repelled coordinated attacks on five security posts in Tirah by elements linked to the local drug mafia in collusion with militants from Fitna al-Khawarij. Seven terrorists were killed in the retaliatory action. Their attempt to stage injuries and falsely present the incident as a drone strike was exposed, with photographs showing only minor injuries consistent with small arms fire.
Investigations found that this disinformation effort was tied to illegal drug operations in the region, including large scale cannabis cultivation and processing in certain villages, including areas associated with CM Sohail Afridi. The false narrative was designed to protect criminal activities and mislead the public.
Security officials emphasised that such propaganda undermines law enforcement efforts and public safety. They urged political representatives, especially within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, to refrain from supporting illegal operations or amplifying misleading narratives.
Security forces remain vigilant and committed to clearing the area of both terrorist elements and organised criminal networks, working to safeguard the population and maintain law and order.
