BAJAUR – Security sources have revealed that there is a deliberate attempt to create ambiguity in discussions about tribes and foreign militants in Bajaur. However, ground realities tell a different story.
According to security officials, militants, referred to as Khawarij, are living among the local population while engaging in terrorist and criminal activities. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, including the Chief Minister and security authorities, has presented three clear points to the tribal elders.
First, these foreign militants, the majority of whom are Afghans, must be expelled from the area.
Second, if the tribes cannot remove these militants themselves, they should vacate the area for one or two days so that security forces can eliminate them.
Third, if neither option is possible, efforts should be made to avoid collateral damage as much as possible, because counter-terrorism operations will continue under all circumstances.
Security sources have stressed that there will be no negotiations with militants or their facilitators at any governmental level unless they fully surrender to the state.
The recently held tribal jirga is seen as a logical step to ensure maximum public safety before operations begin. However, there will be no compromise with militants who are enemies of both Islam and the state, as neither religion, the government, nor the courageous people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa accept such concessions.
Authorities have made it clear that the right to carry out armed action rests solely with the state.
