The recent controversy over displacement in Tirah Valley has sparked widespread debate. However, what is the truth behind it all?
Law enforcement agencies, including police, intelligence services, and the army, are continuing targeted intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across the country as part of counter-terrorism efforts.
More than 75,000 IBOs were conducted last year alone. It averages over 200 operations per day.
These operations have reportedly proven effective in targeting terrorists and their facilitators.
In addition, 2,597 terrorists were killed during the IBOs’ last year. This is the highest number recorded in a single year.
It can be observed that the law enforcement agencies have improved their operational capacity through better tactics, technology, and procedures.
Additionally, it has been stated before that IBOs are preferred as they limit harm to civilians and avoid large-scale population suffering.
This approach also reduces the space for propaganda by terrorist groups and their supporters.
In the case of Tirah, the area has been affected by the presence of militants supported by a drug-based terror economy.
These militants have been operating within local populations, using civilians as human shields, storing explosives in residential areas, and using drones. This all increases the risk of collateral damage during operations.
According to previous reports as well, a jirga was held in September in which local elders approached the military and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to find a solution to end militant presence.
Three options were discussed: the jirga engaging with militants to ask them to leave, security forces increasing IBOs, or locals voluntarily relocating to allow security forces to operate freely.
Sources said the jirga initially tried to engage with the militants, but they refused to leave.
The jirga later proposed a voluntary relocation in line with traditional seasonal migration.
No forced displacement was carried out by security forces at any stage, and no additional troops have been deployed in Tirah, as stated by the government officials as well.
Winter conditions are not suitable for major operations. The migration is a regular practice.
Additionally, no military screening points are in place, which would normally be seen during a full-scale operation.
Sources state that false narratives were being spread for political reasons, which they said could complicate counter-terrorism efforts and create confusion about the role of security forces.
Read more: Tirah Valley migration routine matter in winters: Khawaja Asif
