Naveed Ahmad Khan
Pakistani security forces have foiled an attempt by a group of terrorists to infiltrate the country from Afghanistan in the Shalozan sector of Kurram district, according to security sources. The sources said the militants belong to “Fitna al-Khawarij,” the term Pakistani authorities use for the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliated groups.
Infiltration bid detected and stopped
Security sources said troops deployed along the border detected the movement of the terrorist group and moved to stop it from crossing into Pakistani territory.
Afghan Taliban open unprovoked fire
As Pakistani forces blocked the infiltration, Afghan Taliban positions across the border reportedly opened unprovoked fire on Pakistani posts. The sources described the firing as an attempt to give cover to the militants and help them cross.
Pakistan responds with heavy weapons
Pakistani forces responded immediately, using heavy weapons against the Afghan Taliban positions. Security sources described the response as swift, effective and decisive.
Outcome
According to the sources, the retaliatory action:
- Thwarted the terrorists’ infiltration attempt.
- Caused heavy damage to the Afghan Taliban posts that had fired on Pakistani positions.
Background
Pakistan has repeatedly said that militants operating from Afghan soil carry out attacks inside the country. It has called on the Afghan Taliban authorities to prevent their territory from being used against Pakistan. Kabul has generally rejected these allegations. The Kurram district, which borders Afghanistan, has seen heightened security measures in recent years because of cross-border militant activity.
