Pakistani security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations in Khyber district after uncovering that Khawarij elements were embedding themselves in civilian areas, using women and children as human shields to conceal their presence and manufacturing explosives inside residential neighbourhoods.
According to security officials, the latest operation in Aka Khel, Tirah Valley, targeted Khawarij commanders identified as Amaan Gul and Masood, who had established hideouts within populated settlements. Intelligence revealed that the Khawarij were running an IED-making facility in the middle of a congested area. A powerful blast at the site killed 12 to 14 Khawarij, while 8 to 10 civilians cynically used as human shields also lost their lives.
Officials strongly rejected reports of “civilian casualties from indiscriminate airstrikes” as false propaganda designed to malign Pakistan’s armed forces. “Our actions are precise, intelligence-driven, and solely directed against Khawarij responsible for bloodshed and instability,” a senior security source said.
The development mirrors a wider pattern of Khawarij exploiting community infrastructure to shield themselves. Earlier this month in Baka Khel, Bannu, Khawarij commander Sadiqullah Garbaz turned the jirga hall of former provincial minister Shah Muhammad Wazir into an operational hub, where stored explosives detonated. In Bajaur and Waziristan, multiple videos have also surfaced showing Khawarij taking shelter inside mosques.
Local eyewitnesses in Tirah confirmed that Khawarij were living among families and concealing weapons inside homes and religious premises. “They were putting everyone’s lives at risk,” one resident said, describing the aftermath of the blast.
Recovered material from the sites included detonators, IED components, and communications devices, underscoring the Khawarij network’s preparations for large-scale attacks. Security forces secured the affected areas while relief teams were deployed to assist the impacted families.
Authorities emphasised that responsibility for civilian losses lies squarely with the Khawarij. “The deaths of innocent people are the tragic outcome of their deliberate policy of hiding behind civilians. Pakistan’s fight is with the Khawarij, not with ordinary citizens,” an official said.
The military vowed to continue its operations until every Khawarij hideout is dismantled. “Pakistan will never be deterred by lies and propaganda. We stand firm in our struggle to protect our people and restore lasting peace,” the statement concluded.
