Pakistan’s security concerns over cross-border militancy have once again been underscored following the identification of the perpetrator of the February 16 suicide attack on the Malangi Check Post in Bajaur, which killed 11 security personnel and two civilians.
Authorities have confirmed that the attacker was an Afghan national, Syed Ahmad, also known as Qari Abdullah Abu Zar, son of Syed Abdul Quddus, hailing from Balkh province in Afghanistan. Reports indicate that Qari Abdullah had previously served in the Afghan Taliban’s special forces and held official responsibilities within Afghanistan.
This incident provides further irrefutable evidence that elements within Afghan territory continue to provide safe havens to extremist groups such as Al-Khawarij. Pakistani officials have repeatedly urged Afghan authorities to ensure their soil is not used to target Pakistan, but ongoing cross-border militant activity indicates these calls have yet to be fully heeded.
Intelligence sources suggest that the attacker’s familial and operational networks in Afghanistan facilitated planning and execution of the cross-border assault. Such safe havens directly contribute to attacks on Pakistani soil, resulting in the tragic loss of human lives.
Pakistan has consistently advocated for bilateral cooperation, border security, and a joint counterterrorism strategy with Afghanistan. Security officials emphasize that sustainable peace in the region cannot be achieved if Afghan territory continues to be exploited against Pakistan’s interests.
