KABUL – Pakistani Taliban militants have carried out a bold assault on security posts along the Afghan border, claiming control of two checkpoints in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday.

In the early hours of the morning, militants initiated the attack in the regions of Janjareet Koh, Ustaoi, and Usool within the picturesque Bamboret Valley. This unsettling development was confirmed by police officers stationed in the area who spoke to The National.

The Tahrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has announced their successful capture of two crucial checkpoints in Janjareet Koh. TTP spokesperson, Muhammad Khurasani, reported, “We have seized control of the checkposts, acquired weaponry and other assets, and tragically, six soldiers have lost their lives.”

As of now, there has been no official response from Pakistan’s security forces regarding the situation. Zu Maira, a dedicated policewoman stationed in Bamboret, described the attack, saying, “The assault unfolded under the cover of darkness, catching Pakistani border forces and police off guard. However, army reinforcements have swiftly arrived at the border area, resulting in an ongoing exchange of gunfire.”

Reports also indicate that roads within the valley have been closed off to ensure public safety. The Bamboret Valley, renowned for its tourist attractions and situated 30km from Chitral, the district’s principal town, had until now enjoyed a relatively peaceful existence compared to other regions within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

This disturbing turn of events follows an increase in militant activities in the province since the TTP terminated its truce with the government in November of the previous year. Moazzam Jah Ansari, the former chief of provincial police, had previously voiced concerns that these attacks were growing more lethal due to the militants’ acquisition of advanced weaponry left behind by departing US forces in Afghanistan.

culled from Afghanistan Times