At least six Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) terrorists were killed, and 15 others were injured Thursday in Khost, Afghanistan, in an IED blast.
According to sources, among the deceased were prominent TTP commanders, including Abdul Manan, Alam Khan Mudakhel, Kajir, and three unnamed terrorists are among the deceased.
Among the injured terrorists are commanders Fazl Amin, Muhammad alias Tofan, Noor Payo Khan, Faqirullah, Turzai, Sat Kare, Ali Sir Khan, Zubair, Hijratullah, Kamal, Sher Afzal, Bakhtullah, and Zubihullah, and two unnamed terrorists.
Following the explosion, the TTP leadership reportedly endured a wave of disenchantment and discord.
In addition, reports suggest that TTP circles have witnessed increased incidents since the Pakistani delegation arrived in Afghanistan.
TTP militants from lower levels have heightened doubts over the Afghan Taliban’s higher leadership. In addition, attacks on the TTP appear to increase in frequency, indicative of heightened intelligence infiltration.
In a second incident, Makram Harasani, the TTP’s Umar Media Group leader, reportedly sustained critical injuries.
Last week, a strong delegation led by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif visited Kabul and convinced the Afghan Taliban to declare “renewed commitment” to countering the TTP’s rising menace.
Authorities were sure that the results of the visit would become evident over the next several weeks, as Pakistan anticipated concrete actions by the Afghan Taliban against terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan.