Pakistan Taliban Launches Major Offensive in KPK, Claims to Capture Several Villages

The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as the Pakistan Taliban, initiated a significant military offensive in the Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan. The operation, which began at 4 AM local time, resulted in the capture of several villages by the TTP. Unfortunately, poor internet connectivity in the area hindered the immediate sharing of visual evidence.

The clashes between Pakistani security forces and the TTP extended to the Durand Line, causing the temporary closure of the Torkham border crossing. Multiple Pakistani security personnel lost their lives during these confrontations. However, the Pakistani media has remained silent on the situation.

In response to the events, the TTP assured the residents of Chitral that they should stay calm, as the TTP’s war is primarily directed against what they perceive as oppressive security agencies. TTP spokesman Muhammad Khurasani conveyed this message in a statement to local media.

While unverified videos circulating on various social media platforms show TTP militants entering the Chitral district and capturing some soldiers, a senior Pakistani security official has denied the TTP’s claims, asserting that no areas were taken by the militants.

The TTP had previously declared an all-out war against the Pakistani military in November 2022, with the goal of establishing Sharia laws in Pakistan. In recent times, Pakistan has experienced a surge in terrorist activities attributed to the TTP, an outfit believed to have close ties to al-Qaida.