Security forces in Lower Kurram have launched a targeted operation against extremists in the Bugan area, following rising unrest and attacks in the region. Commissioner Kohat Division, Muttasimbillah, confirmed during a press conference at the District Police Office Hangu that the operation was necessary due to militants infiltrating peaceful tribal communities.
Muttasimbillah highlighted that the peace agreement reached in Kohat between the warring factions in Kurram was historically significant and well-aligned with the local context. The agreement outlined mutual responsibilities to maintain lasting peace, but recent attacks necessitated immediate action.
Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the provincial government spokesperson, stated that a high-level meeting, including the Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and senior police officials, decided to take indiscriminate action against miscreants. He assured that the state stands with peaceful citizens and is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The operation, which began on Sunday, saw security forces using heavy artillery and seizing control of militant strongholds in Bugan. Residents have started relocating to safer areas, with temporary camps being established in Hangu to accommodate the displaced population.
However, the operation has sparked protests in multiple locations, including Islamabad, Sadda, and Mandori, where a sit-in is ongoing. Protest leaders, such as Haji Karim Orakzai, condemned the military action, accusing authorities of further destruction by targeting their homes.
Commissioner Muttasimbillah revealed that two convoys of relief supplies have safely reached their destinations under the protection of peace committees. However, an attack on the third convoy prompted a robust response from security forces. He emphasized that the operation strictly adheres to the terms of the peace agreement, targeting areas where violations occur.
Security forces, along with the provincial government, are actively delivering medical aid and relief supplies to affected areas via helicopters. Meanwhile, the Regional Police Officer (RPO) Abbas Majeed Marwat attributed part of the unrest to misinformation spread on social media and assured that the FIA is investigating these incidents.
Protesters in Mandori have called for a comprehensive operation across the region, from Chapri to Parachinar, by Apex Committee decisions. They insist that the action be impartial and cover all areas harboring miscreants.
Barrister Saif reiterated the government’s appeal to the public to help identify miscreants within their communities. He assured that peaceful citizens would be protected, and the best possible arrangements were made for displaced families.
The provincial government has spent the last three months attempting to restore peace through negotiations and a grand jirga. However, repeated attacks, including an assassination attempt on the Deputy Commissioner, have underscored the need for decisive action. The government remains committed to eliminating extremist elements and restoring peace in Kurram while upholding the peace agreement and Pashtun traditions.
The government has decided to establish a temporary relief camp in Hangu for the victims of the anti-terrorism operation in the Bugan area of Kurram district.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hangu, Gohar Zaman, announced that the camp will be set up in the Muhammad Khwaja area, spanning hundreds of acres to house thousands of displaced families. The facility will include essential services such as schools, mosques, a Basic Health Unit (BHU), and other necessary amenities.
According to DC Gohar Zaman, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has pledged 22 trucks of supplies, including tents, for the camp. The district administration has already received four trucks of relief items, and work on setting up the camp began today.
Zaman assured the media that all possible facilities will be provided to the displaced families to ensure their comfort during the transitional period.
The decision to establish the camp follows a tragic incident in Lower Kurram’s Bugan area, where an attack on a relief convoy resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including two security personnel. Six attackers were also killed during the clash. In response to this, authorities launched an anti-terrorism operation in the region.
The establishment of the camp reflects the government's commitment to supporting the displaced families while maintaining security and stability in the area.
