Bajaur – The Pakistan Army has launched Operation Sar Bakaf in Bajaur near the Afghan border in response to increased movement and presence of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Following the announcement, the local administration imposed a three-day curfew across approximately 15 villages including Badisia, Tarkho, Arib, and others.

Significant Gains in Initial Phase

Security forces achieved a major breakthrough on the first day. According to official sources, 17 high-value TTP militants were killed—most of them Afghan nationals—and 24 others were critically injured. Four injured militants were captured alive and are currently under interrogation.

Special Services Group (SSG), Special Operations Group (SOG), and Light Commandos are jointly engaged in clearing out remaining threats. Conflicting reports suggest that top TTP commander Malang Bacha may have been among those killed or injured.

Intelligence sources confirm the militants were planning a large-scale attack which was thwarted by the swift launch of this operation. House-to-house search operations are underway, and senior military leadership is directly overseeing the mission.

Political Backlash and Civilian Concerns

Opposition parties have raised serious concerns. JUI spokesperson Aslam Ghauri criticized the timing and intent, arguing that such operations often harm civilians more than terrorists. ANP leader Senator Aimal Wali Khan denounced the operation as “state terrorism” and questioned the role of the provincial government in authorizing it.

ANP provincial president Mian Iftikhar Hussain stated that the curfew and strict restrictions across 16 union councils have effectively imprisoned civilians, calling it an undemocratic and unconstitutional move.

Tragically, during the operation, one army major and three soldiers were martyred. ISPR confirmed the casualties and emphasized the heavy losses inflicted on the militants. However, TTP has rejected the army’s claims, asserting their fighters are offering strong resistance.

Civilian Casualties and Public Reactions

Reports have surfaced alleging civilian deaths due to intense shelling. Local announcements via mosque loudspeakers had urged residents to stay indoors, yet multiple civilian casualties were reported—drawing widespread condemnation.

Analysts emphasize that while such anti-terror operations are necessary, ensuring the safety of innocent civilians must remain a top priority for security forces.

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