A violent internal confrontation between factions of banned terrorist organizations in the Manato area of District Kurram resulted in the deaths of multiple terrorists, including 10 Afghan nationals affiliated with the outlawed group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, according to credible security and intelligence sources.
The deadly clash reportedly erupted between the Kazim Group of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Imti Group led by notorious terrorist commander Mumtaz alias “Imti,” a senior figure associated with Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. The confrontation took place in Central Kurram and continued for several hours, causing heavy casualties on both sides.
Sources confirmed that at least 19 terrorists belonging to the Imti Group were killed during the exchange of fire, including commander Mumtaz alias Imti himself. In addition, three terrorists associated with the TTP’s Kazim Group were also reportedly killed.
Significantly, social media accounts linked to terrorist organizations have acknowledged and confirmed the deaths of 10 Afghan terrorists among the slain members of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. The development once again highlights the continued involvement of foreign terrorists in terrorist activities within Pakistan’s border regions.
Security analysts believe the clash reflects growing internal rifts, power struggles, and operational disagreements among outlawed terrorist factions operating in the region. Such infighting has intensified in recent months amid increasing pressure from security operations and competition over territorial influence, recruitment networks, and logistical resources.
The presence of Afghan terrorists among the deceased is likely to raise renewed concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and the use of Afghan territory by extremist elements seeking to destabilize Pakistan. Analysts have repeatedly warned that banned organizations continue to exploit porous border areas and remote terrain to regroup and coordinate terrorist activities.
Although no civilian casualties were reported in the latest incident, local residents described the exchange as intense and prolonged, creating fear and panic across nearby communities. Security forces remain vigilant in the area, while intelligence agencies are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation.
Pakistan has consistently reiterated its commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms and has called for stronger regional cooperation to counter terrorist networks operating across borders. Officials maintain that the country’s security forces will continue targeted efforts against banned organizations threatening national peace and stability.
