On Sunday, police and security forces arrested 20 more suspected terrorists and facilitators in Kurram district, raising the total detained to 85.
The law enforcement agencies (LEAs) started operations following deadly attacks on supply convoys along the Kohat-Parachinar road.
On February 17, militants ambushed over 30 trucks carrying food to Kurram in Bagan, Charkhel, Ochat, and Mandori. They looted the convoy, burned 19 trucks, and killed several people, including security personnel and drivers. Four trucks with looted goods, like medicines, were later recovered.
Regional Police Officer (RPO) Abbas Majid Marwat reported the seizure of heavy weapons 81 SMGs, 2 HMGs, 2 LMGs, Kalashnikovs, shotguns, and ammunition from the detainees. Many are linked to 57 individuals held by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). Additional arrests occurred in Peshawar, including Maulana Shah Nawaz, for provocative speeches.
The operation, involving gunship helicopters and artillery, targets militant hideouts in Kurram’s mountains. Door-to-door searches in Lower Kurram aim to secure the region. The provincial government is also hunting high-value terrorists with bounties.
Traders demand relief for Kurram’s 500,000 residents, who face shortages as petrol prices soar to Rs 1,500 per litre. Stabilizing the Kohat-Parachinar road remains a priority.
