KHYBER: The Tirah Valley is experiencing heightened security concerns as armed men from militant groups Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Lashkar-i-Islam (LI) have commenced patrols in the region.
Local residents are urging authorities to bolster security measures to protect the community. Despite local markets remaining open and normal vehicle traffic continuing, the presence of TTP and LI militants in areas such as Bar Qambarkhel, Adamkhel, Thiyrai, Landawar, Pir Mela, Bhutan Shareef, and Sanda Pal has intensified security worries.
Videos circulating on social media showing TTP militants in Pir Mela Bazaar have prompted calls for a more stringent response from security forces. Residents report that while they are subjected to frequent searches and questioning at security checkpoints, armed militants are moving freely, with local police and Levies forces largely absent from the area.
One resident from Pir Mela expressed frustration with the security forces’ perceived indifference, stating that local faith in law enforcement has eroded. Another resident from Maidan noted that the anticipation of a possible military operation has led many to stay indoors, as they cannot afford another displacement after suffering significant losses previously.
Residents from Sanda Pal, Bhutan Shareef, and Dars Jumaat have reported that militants are demanding food and shelter, with the threat of severe consequences for non-compliance. They claim that in response to providing such aid, their homes have been targeted by security forces under the guise of attacking militant positions.
A Pashto pamphlet circulated online alleges that TTP militants have gained control over the Peer Tharee area and are patrolling Pir Mela Bazaar, suggesting that security forces have withdrawn from their positions. However, locals dispute this claim, asserting that while security forces are still present in some areas, they have not addressed the militant patrols effectively.
In related news, Kukikhel tribesmen staged a protest at the district administration offices in Jamrud tehsil, demanding the prompt return of displaced families to their homes in Tirah Valley. Following negotiations with local police, the protesters returned to their camp adjacent to Bab-i-Khyber. The protest, now in its 15th day, awaits an announcement regarding the schedule for the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
