Security forces in Central Kurram repelled a terrorist attack on a post in the Manto area, killing ten militants and injuring two others in a fierce exchange of fire. Two soldiers embraced martyrdom during the fighting. Forces have cordoned off the area and intensified the search operation, according to initial information.
This latest incident comes against the backdrop of a year marked by repeated terrorist strikes and escalating security challenges across Central Kurram. The district has remained tense since sectarian unrest that erupted late last year, compounded by infiltration attempts from across the border.
In July, terrorists linked to the TTP, declared by the state as Fitna al-Khawarij, stormed a house in the Sateen area and murdered three local residents, including Saddam, a respected tribal elder who played a key role in peace efforts.
In August, militants ambushed security convoys in the Dogar area, damaging vehicles and prompting a clearance operation in the rugged mountainous belt.
In September, security forces killed two militants in Khyber Wali Nallah, where terrorists were carrying bags marked NDRF India, raising questions about external facilitation. The firefight followed major intelligence based operations in Lakki Marwat and Bannu in which thirty one Khawarij were eliminated.
In October, eleven security personnel, including a Wing Commander and a Major of the Frontier Corps, were martyred in a prolonged assault that began with an attack on the Jogi check post. Nineteen Khawarij, including two commanders, were killed in the retaliatory operation in Jamal Mela.
In November, security forces eliminated twenty two terrorists in Minato and Marzai during precision intelligence based operations. Explosives planted by militants inside a residential structure detonated during the engagement, injuring several personnel but resulting in no civilian casualties.
In August, near Doaba Bridge, four terrorists were neutralised in another gunfight that left one soldier injured.
Taken together, these incidents underline the persistent militant threat in Central Kurram, where security forces continue sustained clearing operations against networks attempting to regroup in areas close to the Afghan border.
